Final answer:
The primary function of the ovary in a flower's gynoecium is to contain and protect the developing ovules, which may later develop into seeds upon fertilization.
Step-by-step explanation:
Primary Function of the Ovary in a Flower's Gynoecium
The primary function of the ovary in a flower's gynoecium is to house one or more ovules, which will each develop into a seed upon fertilization. Specifically, the question asks about the role of the ovary, which is not to trap pollen (that's the stigma's role), to develop into fruit (though it may become part of the fruit after fertilization), or to produce endosperm (this is part of the seed's development post-fertilization). Rather, the correct answer is that the primary function of the ovary is to contain and protect the developing ovules which, after fertilization, will develop into seeds.
How the Ovary Functions within the Flower
Located within the gynoecium, the ovary of a flower forms the base of the female reproductive structure, which is composed of three main parts: the stigma, style, and ovary. During pollination, the stigma captures pollen grains, which then grow a tube through the style to reach the ovary. Once inside the ovary, pollination results in fertilization of the ovules. Following fertilization, the ovules develop into seeds, and the ovary itself often matures into a fruit that protects the seeds and may aid in their dispersal, depending on the plant species.