Where does photosynthesis primarily occur in plant cells?

Photosynthesis primarily occurs in chloroplasts, which are specialized organelles found in plant cells. Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, the green pigment that captures light energy from the sun, which is essential for the photosynthesis process. This process converts carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, using light energy.

Chloroplasts have a unique structure that allows them to efficiently carry out photosynthesis. Their internal membranes, known as thylakoids, are organized into stacks called grana, where the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis take place. The surrounding fluid, called stroma, is where the light-independent reactions, such as the Calvin cycle, occur.

This specialization of chloroplasts is critical to the overall function of plant cells, enabling them to produce energy in the form of glucose, which is vital for growth and metabolism.