The process by which green plants convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose is known as photosynthesis. Utilizing sunlight as energy, this process occurs mainly in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll captures light energy. Photosynthesis consists of two stages: the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle (light-independent reactions). The overall reaction produces glucose, which serves as an energy source for the plant, while releasing oxygen as a byproduct, crucial for life on Earth.