Correct Option
Photosynthesis is the biochemical process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy. This involves the capture of free energy from sunlight by photosynthetic pigments like chlorophyll. This light energy is then transformed into potential energy, which is stored in the chemical bonds of organic compounds, primarily glucose. This stored chemical energy is subsequently utilized by the organism for growth, metabolism, and other life processes. Hence, free energy is converted into potential energy and stored.
Incorrect Options
- Option 1: "Potential energy is released to form free energy" describes a process of energy release, such as cellular respiration, where stored chemical energy is converted into usable forms of energy. Photosynthesis is an energy-storing process.
- Option 3: "Food is oxidized to release carbon dioxide and water" accurately describes cellular respiration. In this process, organic compounds (food) are broken down, typically in the presence of oxygen, to release energy, carbon dioxide, and water. Photosynthesis is the anabolic process of synthesizing food.
- Option 4: "Oxygen is taken, and carbon dioxide and water vapour are given out" also describes the gas exchange characteristic of cellular respiration in most aerobic organisms. During photosynthesis, plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen.