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Multiple Choice
When a tree grows using energy from sunlight, which biological process is primarily responsible for converting solar energy into chemical energy?
A
Transpiration
B
Photosynthesis
C
Fermentation
D
Cellular respiration
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the question: The problem asks which biological process is responsible for converting solar energy into chemical energy during tree growth. This involves identifying the process that captures sunlight and transforms it into usable energy.
Review the options provided: Transpiration, Photosynthesis, Fermentation, and Cellular Respiration. Each term represents a distinct biological process, so we need to analyze their roles in energy conversion.
Clarify the concept of photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert solar energy into chemical energy stored in glucose molecules. This occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells and involves the pigment chlorophyll absorbing sunlight.
Explain why photosynthesis is the correct answer: During photosynthesis, sunlight is used to drive the reaction that combines carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) to produce glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂). The chemical equation for photosynthesis is: . This process is essential for energy storage in plants.
Differentiate photosynthesis from the other options: Transpiration is the loss of water vapor from plant leaves, which does not involve energy conversion. Fermentation is an anaerobic process that breaks down glucose to produce energy, but it does not involve sunlight. Cellular respiration is the process of breaking down glucose to release energy, but it uses chemical energy rather than converting solar energy.