In the context of an introduction to photosynthesis, what is the primary function of photosynthesis in plants and other photoautotrophs?

• A. To convert oxygen into carbon dioxide and water to release energy
• B. To convert light energy into chemical energy stored in sugars (e.g., glucose) using carbon dioxide and water
• C. To absorb minerals from the soil and transport them to leaves
• D. To break down glucose to produce ATP through cellular respiration

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that photosynthesis is a process carried out by plants and other photoautotrophs to harness energy from sunlight.
2. Recognize that the primary goal of photosynthesis is to convert light energy into a form of chemical energy that can be stored and used by the organism.
3. Know the basic inputs and outputs of photosynthesis: it uses carbon dioxide (CO\_2) and water (H\_2O) as raw materials and produces glucose (C\_6H\_{12}O\_6) and oxygen (O\_2) as products.
4. Recall the general photosynthesis equation: \$6CO\_2 + 6H\_2O + light \ energy \rightarrow C\_6H\_{12}O\_6 + 6O\_2$.
5. Conclude that the primary function of photosynthesis is to convert light energy into chemical energy stored in sugars like glucose, which can later be used by the plant for growth and metabolism.