Final answer:
The PRIMARY function of photosynthesis is to convert light energy from the sun into chemical energy stored as glucose, while oxygen is released as a byproduct. It is a vital process for the energy supply of both plants and animals, underpinning the life-support systems on Earth. The long-lasting energy in glucose molecules dates back to ancient photosynthesis, as seen in today's fossil fuels.
Step-by-step explanation:
The PRIMARY Function of Photosynthesis
The PRIMARY function of photosynthesis is to convert light energy from the sun into chemical energy, which is stored in the bonds of glucose, a type of carbohydrate. This conversion is crucial because it provides the primary energy source for almost all living organisms on Earth. During the process, oxygen is also produced as a byproduct and released into the atmosphere, which is vital for the survival of aerobic organisms.
Photosynthesis is essential because it captures the energy of sunlight and transforms it into a form that can be used by living organisms to fuel their metabolic processes. The stored chemical energy within covalent bonds of sugar molecules is a stable form of energy that can last for millions of years, as evidenced by the energy we harness from coal and petroleum, which originated from ancient photosynthesis.
The overall purpose of the light reactions in photosynthesis is to capture solar energy and use it to produce ATP and NADPH, which are then used to make carbohydrates, specifically glucose. This complex process is the cornerstone of the life-support system on Earth and illustrates the intricate energy conversion mechanisms developed by photosynthetic organisms.