Plants use the process of photosynthesis to convert sunlight into energy. This process primarily occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll (the green pigment) captures sunlight. During photosynthesis, plants take in carbon dioxide from the air and water from the soil, using sunlight to convert these substances into glucose (a form of sugar) and oxygen. The glucose serves as energy for growth and development, while oxygen is released as a byproduct. Photosynthesis is fundamental to life on Earth, as it forms the basis of the food chain and is crucial for maintaining atmospheric oxygen levels.