What is the role of stomata in photosynthesis?

Stomata play a crucial role in regulating gas exchange during photosynthesis. They are small openings found on the surface of leaves and stems that facilitate the entry of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. This gas is essential for the process of photosynthesis, where plants convert light energy into chemical energy.

As stomata open to allow CO2 in, they also enable the release of oxygen (O2), a byproduct of photosynthesis. This balancing act is vital for plant health and efficient photosynthesis, as it ensures the plant has adequate CO2 for the synthesis of glucose while managing water loss through transpiration.

The other choices focus on aspects that do not pertain directly to the stomata's function. While glucose is synthesized in the chloroplasts, and light energy is captured by chlorophyll, these processes occur inside plant cells rather than being functions of the stomata. Water and nutrient transport occurs primarily through the xylem and phloem, not through the stomata. Thus, the primary role of stomata in photosynthesis is indeed their regulatory function in gas exchange.