Final answer:
The energy conversion in photosynthesis is from electromagnetic (light) energy to chemical bond energy, where light energy is used to synthesize carbohydrates which store the energy in their bonds.
Step-by-step explanation:
The energy conversion characterizes photosynthesis is B. electromagnetic (light) energy → chemical bond energy. Photosynthesis involves the transformation of light energy from the sun into chemical energy that is stored in the bonds of glucose molecules.
During photosynthesis, photoautotrophs, such as plants, absorb light energy, which is then utilized to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) into oxygen and glucose. This process takes place in the chloroplasts of plant cells, specifically within the thylakoid membranes during the light-dependent reactions. The energy captured is temporarily stored in molecules like ATP and NADPH, which are later used in the Calvin cycle to synthesize carbohydrates.
The stability and long-term storage capability of the chemical bonds in carbohydrates is quite remarkable, as the energy stored in fossil fuels like coal and petroleum, originating from ancient photosynthesis, can attest. Understanding the conversion of light energy to chemical bond energy is crucial to grasp how plants power themselves and how they play a fundamental role in sustaining life by forming the base of the food chain.