Photosynthesis is a biological process that converts light energy into chemical energy. This chemical energy is used to power the metabolism of organisms that perform photosynthesis, such as plants, algae, and cyanobacteria.PhotosynthesisWhat it doesConverts light energy into chemical energyWhere it happensIn chloroplasts, organelles found in plants and algaeWhat it producesOxygen and energy-rich organic compounds like sugars, glycogen, cellulose, and starchesHow it worksPlants capture light energy and use it to convert water, carbon dioxide, and minerals into oxygen and organic compoundsImportancePlays a critical role in producing and maintaining the oxygen content of the Earth's atmospherePhotosynthesis is a multistep process that includes:Harvesting solar energyTransferring excitation energyEnergy conversionElectron transfer from water to NADPATP generationEnzymatic reactions that assimilate carbon dioxide and synthesize carbohydrateThe leaves of plants appear green because chlorophyll, a pigment in the leaves, reflects that color of sunlight.