In which organelle does photosynthesis occur in plant cells?

• A. Mitochondrion
• B. Ribosome
• C. Chloroplast
• D. Nucleus

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose molecules. To determine the organelle responsible for this process, we need to understand the structure and function of plant cell organelles.
2. The chloroplast is the organelle where photosynthesis occurs. It contains chlorophyll, a pigment that captures light energy, and is equipped with specialized structures like thylakoid membranes and the stroma to facilitate the light-dependent and light-independent reactions of photosynthesis.
3. The mitochondrion is responsible for cellular respiration, not photosynthesis. It generates ATP by breaking down glucose, which is produced during photosynthesis.
4. The ribosome is involved in protein synthesis and does not play a role in photosynthesis. It translates mRNA into polypeptide chains.
5. The nucleus houses the cell's genetic material and regulates cellular activities but does not directly participate in photosynthesis. Therefore, the correct organelle for photosynthesis is the chloroplast.