To more accurately represent the process of photosynthesis, what must be added to the basic chemical equation: \$6\text{CO}_2 + 6\text{H}_2\text{O} \rightarrow \text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6 + 6\text{O}_2$?

Step 3: Note that the basic equation does not explicitly include light energy, which is essential for the process. Light energy is absorbed and converted into chemical energy during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.

Step 4: Understand that light energy is a reactant in the photosynthesis process because it initiates the splitting of water molecules (\(\text{H}_2\text{O}\)) into oxygen (\(\text{O}_2\)), protons, and electrons. These electrons are then used in the production of ATP and NADPH during the light-dependent reactions.