The process by which plants make their own food is called photosynthesis. It is a crucial process that allows plants to survive and thrive in their environments.

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy from the sun into chemical energy, which is then stored in the form of organic compounds such as glucose and other sugars. This energy is used to fuel the plant's growth, development, and reproduction.

The process of photosynthesis involves the following steps:

1. Light absorption: Plants absorb light energy from the sun through their leaves.
2. Conversion of light energy to chemical energy: The light energy is converted into chemical energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate).
3. Carbon fixation: The ATP and NADPH are used to fix carbon dioxide from the air into organic compounds such as glucose.
4. Glucose synthesis: The organic compounds are converted into glucose through a series of chemical reactions.
5. Storage: The glucose is stored in the plant's tissues, such as leaves, stems, and roots, for later use.

The process of photosynthesis is essential for the survival of plants, as it provides them with the energy they need to grow, reproduce, and maintain their structure. It is also important for the environment, as it helps to regulate the carbon cycle and mitigate the effects of climate change.

There are two types of photosynthesis