The process that plants use to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose is called photosynthesis. This vital process primarily occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, using sunlight as the energy source. During photosynthesis, plants take in carbon dioxide from the air and water from the soil. Through a series of chemical reactions, powered by sunlight, they convert these raw materials into glucose (a sugar used for energy and growth) and oxygen, which is released as a byproduct. Photosynthesis is essential for the survival of plants and provides oxygen for other living organisms.