The structure that allows plants to absorb sunlight for photosynthesis is called a chloroplast. These organelles contain the pigment chlorophyll, which captures solar energy and converts it into chemical energy through photosynthesis. Chloroplasts facilitate the transformation of carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, serving as the cornerstone of energy transfer in ecosystems. By harnessing sunlight, chloroplasts enable plants to produce their own food, supporting life on Earth.