The process of converting light energy into chemical energy in plants is known as photosynthesis. This occurs primarily in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll absorbs sunlight. During photosynthesis, carbon dioxide and water are converted into glucose and oxygen with the help of sunlight. The overall balanced equation for photosynthesis can be summarized as: 6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2. This process is fundamental for plant growth and serves as the basis for energy input in most ecosystems.