Which process do plants and algae use to produce food using sunlight?

Plants and algae use photosynthesis to produce food using sunlight. During this process, chlorophyll in the chloroplasts captures sunlight and converts it into chemical energy. This energy is then used to combine carbon dioxide from the air and water from the soil to produce glucose, a type of sugar that serves as food for the plant. Additionally, oxygen is released as a byproduct of this process, which is essential for the survival of most life forms on Earth.

The importance of photosynthesis extends beyond just the food production for plants; it plays a crucial role in the global carbon cycle and contributes significantly to the planet's oxygen supply, supporting life overall.