During photosynthesis, the chemical reaction involves plants converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose (a type of sugar) and oxygen, using sunlight as the energy source. This process occurs mainly in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll captures light energy. The overall equation for photosynthesis is usually summarized as: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂. This reaction is essential for life on Earth, as it provides the oxygen we breathe and is the foundation of the food chain, supporting plant and animal life alike.