How do plants take in carbon dioxide?

Plants take in carbon dioxide (CO₂) through tiny openings in their leaves called stomata. The stomata allow CO₂ to enter and oxygen to exit the plant as part of the process of photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, plants use sunlight to convert CO₂ and water into glucose, which serves as food for the plant, and oxygen, which is released into the atmosphere. The stomata open and close based on environmental conditions, such as humidity and light intensity, to regulate gas exchange and water loss.