What is the primary function of chlorophyll in plants?

Chlorophyll's primary function in plants is light absorption. This pigment is essential for the process of photosynthesis, where it captures sunlight, converting light energy into chemical energy. Chlorophyll mainly absorbs blue and red wavelengths of light, reflecting green light, which is why plants appear green. The absorbed light energy is then used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, providing energy and organic compounds for the plant's growth and development. This role is crucial not only for the plant itself but also for the entire ecosystem, as it is the foundation of the food chain, supporting life by supplying energy to herbivores and, in turn, to predators. Understanding this function highlights the importance of chlorophyll in sustaining life on Earth.