Chloroplasts (Gr. Chloros - Green, Plastos - Shaped)

Chloroplasts (from the Greek words "chloros" - green and "plastos" - shaped) are organelles that are found in plant cells and play an important role in the process of photosynthesis.

Chloroplasts are organelles that contain chlorophyll, a green pigment that absorbs light energy and uses it to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen through the process of photosynthesis. This process is the main source of energy for plant cells and, therefore, for the entire plant world.

Chloroplasts are flat in shape and surrounded by a double membrane. Inside the chloroplasts is a fluid called stroma, which contains the thylakoid membrane systems. Thylakoids form stacks called grana and contain molecules of chlorophyll and other pigments that enable the process of photosynthesis.

During photosynthesis, light is absorbed by chlorophyll, which transfers electron energy through the electron transport chain located on the thylakoids. This leads to the creation of a potential difference, which is used to synthesize ATP, the main energy molecule in the cell.

Chloroplasts not only perform the function of photosynthesis, but also participate in other processes of cellular metabolism, such as the synthesis of amino acids, lipids and enzymes. They can also store certain substances, such as starch, in the chloroplasts of their leaves.

Overall, chloroplasts are extremely important organelles for plants, and without them, life on Earth would not be possible. They demonstrate amazing complexity and efficiency in the process of converting light energy into chemical energy, which allows plants to survive in various conditions and produce food for the entire living world.