Final answer:
The whole process of photosynthesis involves converting c) light energy into chemical energy (ATP and NADPH) during the light-dependent reactions, which is then used to create sugars from carbon dioxide during the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle).
Step-by-step explanation:
The events that best describe the entire photosynthesis process, which includes both the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions, are summed up in answer choice C: light energy is converted to chemical energy; chemical energy is used to make sugar.
In the light-dependent reactions, chlorophyll within plant cells absorbs light energy, which is then transformed into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH. While these reactions rely directly on light, the light-independent reactions, also known as the Calvin cycle, do not utilize light as a reactant. However, they do depend on the ATP and NADPH produced by the light-dependent reactions to synthesize sugars from carbon dioxide.
The combination of these two stages results in the production of energy-rich sugars which can be utilized by the plant for growth, development, and maintenance.