Answer:

Introduction:
In plants, the process of photosynthesis takes place in the leaves, where sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide are converted into glucose (food) and oxygen. Glucose, the primary product of photosynthesis, is then further converted into starch for storage purposes. Therefore, the food prepared by leaves is stored as starch.

Explanation:
1. Photosynthesis:
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen. It primarily occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, which are abundant in leaves. The leaves contain chlorophyll, a pigment that helps capture sunlight.

2. The role of glucose:
During photosynthesis, glucose is produced as a result of the combination of carbon dioxide and water in the presence of sunlight. Glucose is a simple sugar that provides energy to the plant for various biological processes. It acts as a fuel for metabolism, growth, and other cellular activities.

3. Conversion to starch:
To store excess glucose, plants convert it into starch. Starch is a complex carbohydrate consisting of multiple glucose units bonded together. It serves as a long-term energy storage molecule in plants.

4. Starch storage in leaves:
Leaves play a crucial role in the production and storage of starch. After photosynthesis, excess glucose is transported from the leaves to other parts of the plant, including storage organs such as roots, tubers, and seeds. However, leaves themselves also store starch.

5. Leaf structure:
Leaves have a specialized cellular structure that facilitates the storage of starch. They consist of various cell types, including mesophyll cells, which contain chloroplasts. The mesophyll cells in the leaf are responsible for photosynthesis and starch storage.

6. Starch granules:
Inside the mesophyll cells, starch is stored in the form of granules. These granules are composed of tightly packed starch molecules. The size and shape of starch granules can vary depending on the plant species.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the food prepared by leaves through the process of photosynthesis is stored as starch. Starch serves as a long-term energy storage molecule in plants and is stored in specialized structures within the leaf cells.

The food prepared by leaves is stored as starch.