What is the overall purpose of photosynthesis?

The overall purpose of photosynthesis is to convert light energy into chemical energy, specifically in the form of glucose molecules. This process occurs in green plants, algae, and some bacteria, which use specialized structures called chloroplasts to carry out photosynthesis. The chemical energy stored in glucose is then used by organisms as an energy source for various cellular processes, such as growth, reproduction, and metabolic activities. Additionally, photosynthesis plays a crucial role in producing oxygen as a byproduct, which is essential for the survival of most life forms on Earth.