What structure in plant cells is responsible for photosynthesis?

The structure in plant cells responsible for photosynthesis is chloroplasts. Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, the green pigment that captures light energy, which is essential for the process of photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, chloroplasts convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen using light energy, primarily from the sun. This process not only fuels the plant's growth and energy needs but also contributes to the oxygen supply in the atmosphere, making chloroplasts integral to both plant life and broader ecological balance.

In contrast, mitochondria are involved in energy production through cellular respiration, ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis, and the cell wall provides structural support and protection but is not involved in the photosynthetic process. Understanding the specific roles of each of these components helps clarify why chloroplasts are uniquely suited for photosynthesis.