Which of the following forms of energy is utilized during photosynthesis?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which form of energy plants take in and use to carry out photosynthesis.

Step 2: Explain the concept Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants make food (glucose) from carbon dioxide and water, using energy from sunlight. Chlorophyll, the green pigment in chloroplasts, absorbs the light energy.

Word equation: Carbon dioxide + Water → (light energy, chlorophyll) → Glucose + Oxygen

Chemical equation: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂

Step 3: Go through the options

• A. Potential: This is stored energy due to position or condition. It is not the energy source for photosynthesis.
• B. Kinetic: This is energy of motion. Plants do not use it to make food.
• C. Solar: This is energy from the sun, which chlorophyll captures. ✅
• D. Chemical: This is the form in which energy is stored in glucose. It is the product of photosynthesis, not the energy absorbed to drive it.

Step 4: Identify the answer Photosynthesis converts solar (light) energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. The energy that is utilized is solar energy, so the answer is C.

Step 5: Exam tip Remember the direction of the conversion: Solar → Chemical. If a question asks what energy is used or absorbed, think solar (light). If it asks what energy is stored or produced, think chemical.