Which of the following best describes photoperiodism in plants?

• A. The breakdown of glucose to release energy in the absence of oxygen.
• B. The movement of water through a plant from roots to leaves.
• C. The physiological response of an organism to the relative lengths of day and night.
• D. The process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the term 'photoperiodism.' Photoperiodism refers to the physiological response of an organism, particularly plants, to the relative lengths of day and night. This is a key concept in plant biology and is crucial for processes like flowering and dormancy.
2. Step 2: Analyze the options provided in the problem. The first option, 'The breakdown of glucose to release energy in the absence of oxygen,' describes anaerobic respiration, which is unrelated to photoperiodism.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the second option, 'The movement of water through a plant from roots to leaves.' This describes transpiration, a process involving water transport, which is also unrelated to photoperiodism.
4. Step 4: Consider the fourth option, 'The process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.' This describes photosynthesis, a fundamental process in plants, but it does not pertain to the concept of photoperiodism.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the third option, 'The physiological response of an organism to the relative lengths of day and night,' as this directly defines photoperiodism in plants.