What is the process through which green plants convert sunlight into food?

The process through which green plants convert sunlight into food is known as photosynthesis. This process occurs primarily in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll captures sunlight. During photosynthesis, plants take in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and water from the soil. Using the energy from sunlight, they convert these raw materials into glucose, a type of sugar that serves as an energy source for the plant. Oxygen is released as a byproduct of this chemical reaction.

Photosynthesis is crucial not only for the survival of plants but also for the broader ecosystem, as it forms the foundation of the food chain. This means that green plants play a vital role in producing oxygen and organic matter, which are essential for life on Earth.