Final answer:
Chloroplasts have two main functions: photosynthesis and storage of pigments, primarily chlorophyll. Most leaves appear green because chlorophyll, the primary pigment in chloroplasts, absorbs light in the red and blue regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, but reflects or transmits green light.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Two Main Functions of Chloroplasts
- Photosynthesis: Chloroplasts are responsible for capturing sunlight and converting it into chemical energy through the process of photosynthesis. This process converts carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.
- Storage of Pigments: Chloroplasts also store pigments, primarily chlorophyll, which gives plants their green color and is essential for absorbing light energy during photosynthesis.
Why Most Leaves Appear Green
The reason most leaves appear green is due to the dominant pigment in chloroplasts, chlorophyll. Chlorophyll absorbs light in the red and blue regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, but reflects or transmits green light. Hence, our eyes perceive leaves as green.
The Primary Pigment Found in Chloroplasts
The primary pigment found in chloroplasts is chlorophyll. Chlorophyll exists in two forms, chlorophyll-a and chlorophyll-b. Chlorophyll-a is the primary pigment involved in photosynthesis and plays a crucial role in capturing and converting light energy.
Learn more about Chloroplasts and their functions