What is the process called where sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water produce sugars?

The process where sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water produce sugars is known as photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, plants utilize chlorophyll to capture sunlight, which then drives the conversion of carbon dioxide from the air and water absorbed from the soil into glucose, a type of sugar, and oxygen. This process is essential for plant growth and energy production, as the sugars created are used for respiration and as building blocks for other vital compounds within the plant.

The other processes mentioned do not describe this function. Fermentation involves the conversion of sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide by yeast, primarily used in winemaking and brewing. Distillation is for separating components based on different boiling points, often used in producing spirits. Aeration refers to the introduction of air into a liquid, often to enhance flavor or reduce unwanted characteristics, but it does not relate to the production of sugars. Thus, photosynthesis is the accurate term for the described process.