How Photosynthesis Works

• Plants use carbon dioxide, water and sunlight to make sugar and oxygen. The plant then uses the sugar for food and releases the oxygen into the atmosphere. The plant stores any excess for use later, or uses it for developing fruit.
  
  

Where Photosynthesis Occurs

• Photosynthesis occurs in the leaves of the plant and, in some cases, the stem. The cells, called chloroplasts, contain a light-sensitive chemical called chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is also a pigment that makes plants green.
  
  

Low-Light Situations

• In situations where sunlight is scarce, the plant will use its stored sugar for energy. If the plant is subjected to prolongs periods of low sunlight, it will die. Prolonged lack of water and carbon dioxide will also cause the plant to die.