During photosynthesis, plants take in carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. This process occurs primarily in the leaves, where chlorophyll absorbs sunlight, providing the energy needed for the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. The absorbed carbon dioxide enters the plant through small openings called stomata. Photosynthesis is vital for plant growth and sustains life on Earth by producing oxygen and organic compounds. It forms the foundation of the food chain, with plants serving as primary producers that convert solar energy into chemical energy usable by other organisms.