What is the main function of chlorophyll in plants?

Chlorophyll plays a crucial role in the process of photosynthesis, which is how plants convert light energy into chemical energy. Its primary function is to absorb light energy, primarily from the blue and red wavelengths of sunlight. This absorbed energy is then used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, the products of photosynthesis. Because chlorophyll is essential for the initial step of capturing light energy, it is often referred to as the green pigment of plants.

The other functions listed do not accurately represent the role of chlorophyll. While plants do store energy produced during respiration, this function is primarily attributed to glucose and other carbohydrates, not chlorophyll. Nutrient transport within the plant is conducted by specialized tissues known as xylem and phloem. Lastly, while some plants have protective adaptations against UV radiation, chlorophyll itself is not specifically aimed at protecting plants from UV rays. Its main role is indeed the absorption of light energy for photosynthesis.