The process by which plants and some bacteria convert sunlight into energy is called "photosynthesis." During photosynthesis, chlorophyll in plant cells captures sunlight, using it to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. The overall equation for photosynthesis can be summarized as carbon dioxide plus water, in the presence of light energy, results in glucose and oxygen. This process is crucial for life on Earth, as it not only produces organic compounds that serve as food for plants but also releases oxygen into the atmosphere, which is essential for the survival of aerobic organisms.