To make energy, a plant must get carbon,
water, and sunlight. The plant uses the process of photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide from the air into organic compounds, like sugars and starches, using the energy from sunlight.
The carbon dioxide enters the plant through small openings on the leaves called stomata. Water is absorbed through the roots and transported up to the leaves through the xylem. The energy from sunlight is captured by pigments called chlorophyll, which are located in specialized structures called chloroplasts.
During photosynthesis, carbon dioxide and water are combined to form glucose (sugar) and oxygen. The glucose is used by the plant as an energy source for growth and reproduction, while the oxygen is released back into the atmosphere through the stomata.
Overall, plants are essential to the survival of life on Earth because they provide the energy and oxygen needed for all living organisms.