Photosynthetic pathways are the processes by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy. The two main types of photosynthetic pathways are C3, C4, and CAM photosynthesis. C3 photosynthesis is the most common, where carbon dioxide is fixed directly into a three-carbon compound. In contrast, C4 photosynthesis involves an additional step that helps plants efficiently capture carbon dioxide in hot, sunny environments. CAM photosynthesis, on the other hand, allows plants to open their stomata at night to minimize water loss, making it ideal for arid conditions. Each pathway has adaptations that help plants thrive in different environments.