Which best describes the nature of photosynthesis?

• A. It is a process by which plants absorb nutrients from the soil.
• B. It is a process by which animals obtain energy from consuming plants.
• C. It is a process by which plants break down glucose to release energy.
• D. It is a process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.

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 formula is $6{\mathrm{CO}}_2+6H_{2}O+\mathrm{light}\to C_6{H}_{12}{O}_6+6O_2$, where light energy is used to produce glucose and oxygen.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Photosynthesis does not involve absorbing nutrients from the soil (this is nutrient uptake), nor does it describe animals obtaining energy from plants (this is consumption), nor does it involve breaking down glucose (this is cellular respiration).
5. Conclude that the correct description of photosynthesis is: 'It is a process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy,' as this aligns with the definition and the chemical process of photosynthesis.