Final answer:
The energy released from burning wood is less than the solar energy absorbed during its formation, as energy is lost in conversion processes and plant maintenance, with the burning process itself also dissipating energy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The amount of energy released when wood is burned is less than the amount of solar energy absorbed during its formation. This is because, in the process of photosynthesis, plants capture solar energy and convert it into chemical energy stored within the wood. When we burn the wood, part of this stored energy is released as heat. However, some energy is inevitably lost in the conversion processes, including energy expended by the plant for growth and maintenance. Additionally, energy is dissipated in the environment during the burning process. It's important to note that burning transforms the stored chemical energy in wood into thermal energy, carbon dioxide, and water vapor, without altering the total amount of matter but merely changing its form.