Which component is essential for e-commerce functionality within an AEM site?

The shopping cart component is essential for e-commerce functionality within an AEM site because it provides the mechanisms necessary for users to add items to their cart, manage their selections, and proceed to checkout. This component facilitates the core shopping experience by allowing customers to see a list of their selected products, adjust quantities, and view prices. Additionally, it integrates with other e-commerce components, such as payment gateways and order processing systems, ensuring a seamless transaction process.

In the context of e-commerce, a functioning shopping cart is fundamental to any online retail strategy, as it directly impacts user experience, conversion rates, and sales. Without this component, users would lack a way to manage their purchases, making it nearly impossible to complete transactions on the site.