What are thylakoids used for in chloroplasts?

Thylakoids are essential components of chloroplasts that play a crucial role in the process of photosynthesis, specifically in the light-dependent reactions. They contain chlorophyll and other pigments that capture light energy from the sun. This energy is then used to facilitate the conversion of water and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen, effectively transforming light energy into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH.

The structural arrangement of thylakoids, often organized into stacks called granum, maximizes their exposure to light, enhancing the efficiency of this energy conversion process. Thus, their primary function is indeed to convert light energy into a usable chemical form, which is critical for the survival of plants and for the energy flow in the biosphere.