Which role does chlorophyll play in photosynthesis?

Chlorophyll plays a crucial role in photosynthesis by capturing light energy. This pigment is primarily found in the chloroplasts of plant cells and is essential for the process of converting light energy into chemical energy. When chlorophyll absorbs light, particularly in the blue and red wavelengths, it energizes electrons that initiate the series of reactions known as the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis. This energy is then used to produce ATP and NADPH, which are vital for the subsequent Calvin cycle where carbon dioxide is fixed into glucose. Thus, the primary function of chlorophyll is to harness sunlight, highlighting its importance in the overall process of photosynthesis.