What structure in plant cells captures energy from sunlight?

Chloroplasts are the structures in plant cells that capture energy from sunlight through a process known as photosynthesis. These organelles contain chlorophyll, the green pigment that absorbs light energy, primarily from the sun. This energy is then used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, which are essential for plant growth and energy production.

Mitochondria, while crucial for energy production through cellular respiration, do not capture sunlight. Ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis and do not play a role in energy capture from sunlight. The nucleus contains the cell's genetic material and regulates cellular activities but is not involved in the process of capturing solar energy. Therefore, chloroplasts are specifically adapted to perform the function of energy capture in plant cells.