plant respiration

Plant respiration is the process by which plants convert the sugars they produce during photosynthesis into energy needed for growth, repair, and maintaining their functions. It occurs mainly in the mitochondria within plant cells, where oxygen is used to break down sugars, releasing energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This process happens continuously, both during the day and night, enabling plants to carry out essential activities such as nutrient uptake, cell division, and responding to environmental changes. In essence, plant respiration is how plants access and utilize stored energy to stay alive and healthy.