Which of the following is the main function of the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis? a. to produce atp and nadph for the light-independent reactions b. to convert carbon dioxide into water c. to release oxygen into the atmosphere d. to break down glucose into pyruvic acid

A. to produce ATP and NADPH for the light-independent reactions Remember, the purpose of photosynthesis is to provide energy for the plant to perform other chemical reactions during the process of growing. So now, let's take a look at the possible answers and see why they do or do not make sense. A. to produce ATP and NADPH for the light-independent reactions * Both of these are nice high energy compounds produced directly by photosynthesis. Unless we see a better option later, this looks like a good choice. B. to convert carbon dioxide into water * Does this provide energy to the plant? No it does not. So this is a bad choice. C. to release oxygen into the atmosphere * This is a happy side effect of the process for us mammals, but it's not the main purpose of photosynthesis and in fact doesn't provide energy to the plant. So wrong choice. D. to break down glucose into pyruvic acid * This does produce energy. But doesn't require light. So it has nothing to do with photosynthesis. Wrong choice.