Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into glucose (a type of sugar) and oxygen. It is a vital process for the Earth's ecosystem, as it produces oxygen and serves as the primary source of energy for most life forms. Chlorophyll, a pigment found in the chloroplasts of plant cells, captures sunlight, which is then used to power the chemical reactions of photosynthesis. In summary, photosynthesis is the remarkable process that allows plants to use sunlight to create energy-rich molecules and release oxygen into the atmosphere.