Which of the following best describes photosynthesis?

• A. A process by which plants absorb nutrients from the soil
• B. A process by which animals break down food to release energy
• C. A process by which fungi decompose organic matter
• D. A process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is a biological process in which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy stored in glucose molecules.
2. Identify the key components involved in photosynthesis: These include light energy, carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), and chlorophyll (the green pigment in plants).
3. Recognize the chemical equation for photosynthesis: The general equation is represented as: $6{\mathrm{CO}}_2+6H_{2}O+\mathrm{light}\to C{6}_{H}O6+6O_2$. This shows that carbon dioxide and water, in the presence of light, produce glucose and oxygen.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: The first three options describe processes unrelated to photosynthesis. For example, absorbing nutrients from the soil is part of nutrient uptake, not photosynthesis. Breaking down food to release energy is cellular respiration, and decomposing organic matter is a function of fungi, not plants.
5. Select the correct answer: Based on the definition and process of photosynthesis, the correct description is 'A process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose.'