C3 photosynthetic pathway

The C3 photosynthetic pathway is the most common method plants use to convert sunlight into energy. In this process, plants take in carbon dioxide from the air and combine it with a molecule called RuBP, forming two 3-carbon molecules (hence C3). This reaction happens in the chloroplasts of leaf cells and is most efficient under cool, moist conditions with good sunlight. However, in hot or dry environments, C3 plants may lose efficiency because the plant’s open stomata also lose water. Examples of C3 plants include wheat, rice, and soybeans.