Leaving Certification (LC) Chemistry Practice Exam

The primary purpose of photosynthesis is to convert light energy into chemical energy. During this process, plants, algae, and some bacteria capture sunlight using chlorophyll and use it to transform carbon dioxide from the air and water from the soil into glucose, a type of sugar. This glucose serves as a fundamental energy source for the plants, allowing them to grow, reproduce, and carry out various biological functions.

The conversion of light energy into chemical energy is crucial because it forms the basis of the food chain. The chemical energy stored in glucose can be used directly by plants or passed on to other organisms when they consume plant material. While the release of oxygen and the absorption of carbon dioxide are significant byproducts and aspects of photosynthesis, they are secondary benefits to the main goal of energy conversion. Producing heat is not a primary function of photosynthesis and does not directly contribute to the plant's survival or energy needs.