What is the primary function of chloroplasts in plant cells?

Chloroplasts are organelles found in plant cells and are primarily responsible for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. They contain chlorophyll, the pigment that captures light energy, and facilitates the transformation of carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, utilizing sunlight as an energy source. This process not only supports the plant's energy needs but also contributes significantly to the oxygen supply on Earth, making chloroplasts vital for both plant life and overall ecosystem health.

While cellular respiration occurs in mitochondria, and protein synthesis takes place at ribosomes, chloroplasts specifically play a distinct role centered around capturing light energy and producing food for the plant. DNA replication is related to cell division and is carried out in the nucleus, further clarifying the specialized functions of organelles within the cell.