Which organelle is responsible for photosynthesis in plant cells?

The organelle responsible for photosynthesis in plant cells is the chloroplast. Chloroplasts are unique to plant cells and some algae, where they facilitate the conversion of light energy from the sun into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This process involves capturing sunlight and using it to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, through a series of reactions known as the light-dependent and light-independent reactions.

Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, the green pigment that absorbs light, making them essential for the photosynthesis process. In contrast, the other organelles play different roles: mitochondria are involved in cellular respiration and energy production, lysosomes are responsible for digestion and waste removal, and the Golgi body is crucial for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins. Understanding the specific functions of these organelles underscores the importance of chloroplasts in plant biology and energy transformation.