What is the process called through which plants manufacture food?

The process through which plants manufacture food is known as photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, plants convert light energy, typically from the sun, into chemical energy stored in glucose, which serves as food for the plant. This vital process occurs mainly in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll, the green pigment, captures light energy.

In the presence of water and carbon dioxide, plants use light energy to synthesize glucose and release oxygen as a byproduct. Photosynthesis is essential not only for the growth and energy needs of the plant itself but also plays a critical role in producing oxygen and removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, thus supporting life on Earth.

The other processes mentioned, such as respiration and transpiration, serve different functions entirely. Respiration involves breaking down glucose to release energy for cellular functions, transpiration refers to the movement of water within the plant and its evaporation from aerial parts, and germination is the process of a seed developing into a new plant.