The process of transforming the chemical energy of cellular fuels into the high energy bonds of ATP in plants is

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which process converts the chemical energy stored in cellular fuels (such as glucose) into the high-energy bonds of ATP in plants.

Step 2: Explain the concept

• Autotrophism is a mode of nutrition where an organism makes its own food. It is not an energy-releasing process.
• Photosynthesis converts light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. It starts from light, not from chemical fuels.
• Photolysis is the splitting of water by light during the light stage of photosynthesis.
• Respiration breaks down fuels such as glucose and releases their chemical energy. That energy is used to make ATP (ADP + Pi → ATP).

Step 3: Solution The key phrase is "chemical energy of cellular fuels → high-energy bonds of ATP." Only respiration does this.

Glucose + oxygen → carbon dioxide + water + energy (stored as ATP)

C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + ATP

Plants respire all the time, in the mitochondria of their cells, just as animals do. They do not only photosynthesize.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is D. respiration.

Tip: Remember the two energy conversions:

• Photosynthesis: light energy → chemical energy (food)
• Respiration: chemical energy (food) → ATP

If the question says "cellular fuels" or "ATP production," think respiration.