* Photosynthesis: Plants use sunlight to power photosynthesis, the process of converting carbon dioxide and water into sugar (glucose) for energy. This process only happens during daylight hours.

* Respiration: At night, plants still need energy to survive. They do this through respiration, a process that breaks down glucose to release energy. This process happens both day and night, but it's more noticeable at night because photosynthesis isn't occurring.

So, how do plants get energy at night?

They rely on the glucose stores they built up during the day through photosynthesis. It's like a plant having a "savings account" of energy they can use when sunlight isn't available.

Important Note: While plants primarily rely on stored energy at night, some plants can actually use a different type of photosynthesis called CAM photosynthesis. These plants open their pores at night to absorb carbon dioxide and store it, using it for photosynthesis during the day when their pores are closed to prevent water loss.