What molecule is primarily produced during the light-independent stage of photosynthesis?

During the light-independent stage of photosynthesis, also known as the Calvin cycle, the primary molecule produced is glucose. This stage occurs in the stroma of chloroplasts and utilizes carbon dioxide, ATP, and NADPH, which are generated during the light-dependent reactions.

In the Calvin cycle, carbon dioxide is fixed into organic molecules, and with the help of ATP and NADPH, it undergoes a series of reactions to ultimately produce glucose. Glucose serves as a crucial energy source for plants and is also used in various metabolic processes or stored for later use.

The other molecules mentioned in the choices play different roles in photosynthesis. Oxygen is produced during the light-dependent reactions when water molecules are split. ATP is an energy currency used during the Calvin cycle but is not produced as a final product. Carbon dioxide is a reactant that is incorporated into organic molecules during this stage. Hence, glucose, being the end product synthesized in this process, confirms it as the correct choice.