The process of converting sunlight into energy in plants is called photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, plants use sunlight to transform carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This process primarily occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll absorbs sunlight. The absorbed light energy drives the chemical reactions needed to produce glucose, which serves as food for the plant. Oxygen, a byproduct of photosynthesis, is released into the atmosphere, making photosynthesis essential for life on Earth as it provides energy for plants and oxygen for other living organisms.