For which of the following functions is chlorophyll used in photosynthesis?

Question

For which of the following functions is chlorophyll used in photosynthesis?

1. A. Reduction of CO₂
2. B. Breaking down water molecules
3. C. No function
4. D. Absorbing light (Correct answer)

Correct Answer

Option D — Absorbing light

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is Absorbing light.

Key Points

• The main function of chlorophyll in photosynthesis is to absorb light energy. Chlorophyll is the green pigment present in the chloroplasts of plant cells; it captures sunlight (mainly the red and blue wavelengths, reflecting green) and converts this light energy into the chemical energy that drives the synthesis of glucose from carbon dioxide and water.
• Since chlorophyll's primary role is to trap/absorb light, the correct answer is absorbing light, option (D).

Additional Information

• the light energy trapped by chlorophyll is used to split water molecules and generate the energy carriers (ATP and NADPH) needed in the reactions that fix CO₂ into sugar.