Plants respond to changes in light through a process called photomorphogenesis. This process involves changes in gene expression and growth patterns in response to the quality, intensity, and duration of light. Light signals are perceived by photoreceptor proteins in plant cells, such as phytochromes and cryptochromes, which trigger signaling pathways that regulate plant growth and development. For example, plants may adjust their leaf orientation, stem elongation, flowering time, and leaf expansion in response to changes in light conditions to optimize photosynthesis and overall plant health.