During photosynthesis, plants convert light energy into chemical energy. Therefore, the correct option is d) Light energy to chemical energy.
In photosynthesis, plants use pigments, such as chlorophyll, to absorb light energy from the sun. This light energy is then used to power a series of chemical reactions in the chloroplasts of plant cells. These reactions involve the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into glucose (a sugar) and oxygen.
The process can be summarized as follows:
1. Light energy from the sun is absorbed by chlorophyll molecules in the chloroplasts of plant cells.
2. This absorbed light energy is used to split water molecules into hydrogen ions (H+) and oxygen atoms.
3. The hydrogen ions are then combined with carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air to produce glucose (C6H12O6).
4. Oxygen gas (O2) is released as a byproduct of photosynthesis.
Overall, photosynthesis is an essential process for plants as it enables them to convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This chemical energy can then be used by the plant for growth, reproduction, and other metabolic processes.