Which primary function is performed by the chloroplast in plant and algal cells?

• A. Synthesis of ATP primarily through oxidative phosphorylation during cellular respiration
• B. Digestion of macromolecules and recycling of cellular components using hydrolytic enzymes
• C. Conversion of light energy into chemical energy by photosynthesis, producing sugars from carbon dioxide and water
• D. Packaging and sorting of proteins and lipids for secretion via the endomembrane system

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the organelle in question: the chloroplast, which is found in plant and algal cells.
2. Recall the primary function of chloroplasts, which is related to energy conversion using light.
3. Understand that chloroplasts perform photosynthesis, a process that converts light energy into chemical energy stored in sugars.
4. Recognize that this process involves taking in carbon dioxide and water and producing glucose and oxygen.
5. Compare this function to other organelles: mitochondria perform oxidative phosphorylation, lysosomes digest macromolecules, and the Golgi apparatus packages proteins and lipids.