What is the function of light-harvesting complexes in photosynthesis?

The function of light-harvesting complexes in photosynthesis is to capture and transfer light energy to photosystems. These complexes are made up of various pigments, including chlorophylls and carotenoids, which absorb light at different wavelengths. Once they absorb light energy, they excite electrons to a higher energy state. This energy is then transferred to the reaction center of the photosystems (specifically Photosystem I and Photosystem II), where it can be used to initiate the process of converting light energy into chemical energy.

This transfer is crucial for the overall photosynthesis process, as the light energy captured by these complexes is what drives the synthesis of ATP and NADPH, which are essential for the subsequent reactions that lead to glucose formation. Storing energy, releasing oxygen, or directly forming glucose are all components of the broader photosynthetic process but are not the primary function of the light-harvesting complexes themselves.