Chlorophyll

This is also found on some algae and cynobacteria. It absorbs light, particularly red and blue light of the spectrum, and reflects green, thus giving plants and trees their distinct green color. The pigment itself is a combination of two individual pigments, Chlorophyl A and B. You may find several plants whose leaves are not green, but these pigments usually do not take part in the photosynthesis process and are simply present to mask the green pigment.

The pigment is extremely vital; it plays a major role in photosynthesis, a process which allows plant to generate energy from light. Chlorophyl molecules perform two critical functions. Most molecules absorb light energy and transfer it to the reaction center of plants, where two more molecules they are converted to food or energy for the plant or tree to function off. During this specific process, oxygen is released by the plants, the gas that is so crucial for man and other animals to exist.

The molecule is structurally similar to porphyrin pigments, like heme. At the center of its chlorine ring is a magnesium ion. The chlorine ring has a lot of chains attached to it, including one phytol chain.

More recently, the pigment is being used as a food colorant. Its registered E number is E140, and it is added to several dishes, such as pasta to give them a green hue. However, this pigment is not soluble in water, and chefs usually add a small amount of oil to be able to get that distinct green color. Studies have shown that consumption of green, leafy vegetables helps people suffering from Anemia, and also aids digestion due to its high fiber content. The pigment is also a powerful anti-oxidant, protecting cells from damage.

It is safe to say that the pigment plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. If it were not for the pigment, the earth would be devoid of any green cover, resulting in ecological imbalance and the annihilation of all life on earth.

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