The source of energy required by plants during food production is

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the source of energy plants need to make food. Notice the word "source". It is asking where the energy originally comes from.

Step 2: Explain the concept Plants make food by photosynthesis:

6CO₂ + 6H₂O --(light energy, chlorophyll)--> C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂

• Light energy from the sun drives the reaction.
• Chlorophyll is the pigment that traps the light energy. It is not the source of the energy.
• Photosynthesis is the process of food production itself, not an energy source.
• Microorganisms (such as decomposers) help recycle nutrients, but they do not supply the energy for photosynthesis.

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Photosynthesis: This is the process of making food, not the energy source. ✗
• B. Chlorophyll: This absorbs light energy but does not produce it. ✗
• C. Sunlight: This is the original source of the light energy that is converted into chemical energy in food. ✓
• D. Microorganisms: These are not an energy source for food production in plants. ✗

Step 4: Answer The correct answer is C. Sunlight.

Exam tip: Remember the roles: sunlight supplies the energy, chlorophyll traps it, and photosynthesis is the process. If a question says "source of energy" for plants, think of the sun.