What is the primary function of photosynthesis in plants?

The primary function of photosynthesis in plants is to turn carbon dioxide and water into sugar. This process occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where light energy from the sun is captured and used to convert these inorganic substances into glucose, a type of sugar that serves as a vital source of energy for the plant.

During photosynthesis, plants also release oxygen as a byproduct, which is essential for the survival of most living organisms on Earth. The chemical equation for photosynthesis illustrates this transformation: carbon dioxide and water, in the presence of sunlight, are converted into glucose and oxygen. This conversion is fundamental for plant growth and for the overall energy flow in ecosystems. While other processes listed, such as nutrient absorption and transpiration, are important for plant health, they do not represent the primary role of photosynthesis itself, which is primarily focused on energy production and organic matter synthesis.