Chlorophyll is the pigment that enables plants to carry out photosynthesis. Which option correctly identifies the process?

• A. Photosynthesis
• B. Respiration
• C. Transpiration
• D. Fermentation

Answer: (A)

Chlorophyll’s job is to capture light energy and drive the production of sugars through photosynthesis. In this process, light energy absorbed by chlorophyll powers reactions in the chloroplasts that convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, releasing oxygen as a byproduct. The light-dependent reactions generate ATP and NADPH, which the Calvin cycle uses to fix CO2 into carbohydrates. This energy capture and carbon fixation step is distinct from other plant processes: respiration breaks down sugars to release energy without light, transpiration is the loss of water through stomata, and fermentation is an anaerobic way to harvest energy without using light. So the process enabled by chlorophyll is photosynthesis.