The process by which plants release oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide is known as photosynthesis. This vital process occurs primarily in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll captures sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. During photosynthesis, plants utilize light energy, transforming it into chemical energy stored in glucose, which serves as a source of energy for growth and development. This not only sustains the plant itself but also contributes to the oxygen supply and carbon cycle within the ecosystem.