The green pigment found in plants that performs photosynthesis is called what?

The green pigment found in plants that is essential for photosynthesis is chlorophyll. This pigment absorbs light most efficiently in the blue-violet and red parts of the electromagnetic spectrum while reflecting green light, which is why plants appear green. Chlorophyll plays a vital role in converting solar energy into chemical energy by enabling the plant to turn carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, facilitated by the presence of sunlight.

In photosynthesis, chlorophyll is located in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where it is crucial for the light-dependent reactions. The ability of chlorophyll to capture light energy is fundamental for the production of energy-rich compounds, which the plant uses for growth and development. This process is not only essential for the plant itself but also provides oxygen and organic materials that are fundamental to life on Earth.