Which process describes how plants convert sunlight into chemical energy?

• A. Fermentation
• B. Photosynthesis
• C. Respiration
• D. Synthesis

Answer: (B)

Plants convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis, a vital process that enables them to produce their own food. During photosynthesis, plants absorb sunlight using chlorophyll, the green pigment found in their leaves. This energy is then used to convert carbon dioxide, taken from the air, and water, absorbed through their roots, into glucose, a type of sugar that serves as an energy source for the plant.

The overall equation for photosynthesis illustrates this transformation: sunlight energy is captured to turn carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. The glucose produced can be stored for later use or utilized immediately for growth and development. The oxygen released is a byproduct of this process, contributing to the atmospheric oxygen that is essential for the survival of almost all living organisms on Earth.

Understanding photosynthesis also highlights its significance in ecosystems, as it forms the foundation of the food chain and is crucial for life on the planet.