Photosynthetic pigments are molecules found in plants, algae, and some bacteria that capture light energy for photosynthesis. The most common pigments are chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b, which absorb light primarily in the blue and red wavelengths. These pigments play a crucial role in converting sunlight into chemical energy, allowing plants to produce food. In addition to chlorophyll, other pigments like carotenoids and xanthophylls also contribute to photosynthesis by capturing light energy and protecting the plant from damage caused by excess light. These pigments can give plants their vibrant colors, such as yellow and orange, and help in the overall process of energy conversion.