What is the role of sunlight in photosynthesis?

Sunlight plays a crucial role in photosynthesis by providing the energy necessary for the process. During photosynthesis, plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This energy from sunlight is absorbed by chlorophyll, the green pigment in leaves, which facilitates the conversion of light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose molecules. This process is essential for plants, as glucose serves as food and energy to support their growth and development.

The other options, while they may pertain to different aspects of plant life, do not accurately represent the primary role of sunlight in photosynthesis. Sunlight does not influence soil composition or attract pollinators directly; instead, these processes are related to different interactions in the ecosystem.