Why is light important for life on Earth?

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Light is a primary tool for perceiving the world and interacting with it for many organisms. Light from the Sun warms the Earth, drives global weather patterns, and initiates the life-sustaining process of photosynthesis; about 10²² joules of solar radiant energy reach Earth each day. Light’s interactions with matter have also helped shape the structure of the universe.

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Why is light important for life on Earth?