Which process describes the conversion of light energy into chemical energy?

The conversion of light energy into chemical energy is primarily characterized by photosynthesis. During this process, plants, algae, and some bacteria capture light energy, usually from the sun, and use it to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This process takes place in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll, the green pigment, absorbs the light energy.

The glucose produced serves as an energy source for the plant and can be utilized directly for growth or stored for later use. This transformation is fundamental because it forms the basis of the food chain, creating organic compounds that other organisms can consume for energy.

In contrast, respiration involves the breakdown of glucose to release energy for use in biological functions, fermentation is an anaerobic process that builds up energy in the absence of oxygen, and transpiration refers to the movement of water within plants and its evaporation from plant surfaces. None of these processes involve converting light energy into chemical energy as photosynthesis does.