What is the primary pigment involved in photosynthesis that captures light?

The primary pigment involved in photosynthesis that captures light is chlorophyll. This green pigment is essential for the process because it absorbs light most efficiently in the blue and red wavelengths while reflecting green light, which is why plants appear green. Chlorophyll is located in the chloroplasts within plant cells and plays a critical role in converting light energy into chemical energy through the photosynthetic process. This ability to capture and utilize light energy is fundamental for the survival of plants and, subsequently, the organisms that depend on them for oxygen and food. While other pigments such as carotenoids and xanthophylls also play roles in photosynthesis, particularly in protecting the plant from excess light and capturing additional wavelengths, chlorophyll is the primary pigment responsible for the initial capture of light energy.