The correct answer is option c because:-Solar energy is converted into chemical energy during photosynthesis.

Photosynthesis: Solar energy converted into chemical energy

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into glucose (a type of sugar) and oxygen. This vital process occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells and is responsible for the production of food and oxygen on Earth. The key reactions involved in photosynthesis are the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions.

Light-dependent reactions:
During the light-dependent reactions, solar energy is converted into chemical energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate). These reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplasts and require sunlight, water, and chlorophyll.

1. Absorption of sunlight:
Chlorophyll, the primary pigment in plants, absorbs sunlight. This energy excites the electrons in the chlorophyll molecules, raising them to a higher energy level.

2. Splitting of water:
The absorbed energy is used to split water molecules into oxygen, hydrogen ions (H+), and electrons. This process is known as photolysis.

3. Formation of ATP and NADPH:
The excited electrons from chlorophyll are passed along a series of electron carriers in the thylakoid membrane. As the electrons move, their energy is harnessed to produce ATP, which is the primary energy currency of cells. Additionally, NADP+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate) is reduced to form NADPH, which carries the high-energy electrons.

Light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle):
In the light-independent reactions, also known as the Calvin cycle, the chemical energy stored in ATP and NADPH is utilized to convert carbon dioxide into glucose. These reactions occur in the stroma of the chloroplasts and do not require direct sunlight.

1. Carbon fixation:
During carbon fixation, carbon dioxide from the atmosphere combines with a 5-carbon compound called RuBP (ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate) to form a 6-carbon molecule. This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme called RuBisCO (ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase).

2. Reduction and regeneration:
The 6-carbon molecule undergoes a series of reduction reactions, utilizing ATP and NADPH, to form two molecules of a 3-carbon compound called PGA (3-phosphoglycerate). Some of the PGA molecules are further converted into glucose, while others are used to regenerate the initial 5-carbon compound (RuBP) to sustain the Calvin cycle.

3. Production of glucose:
The PGA molecules that are not used in the regeneration process are converted into glucose through a series of additional reactions. This glucose can be stored as starch or used for energy production within the plant.

Conclusion:
In summary, photosynthesis converts solar energy into chemical energy by utilizing sunlight to split water, produce ATP and NADPH, and convert carbon dioxide into glucose. This process is crucial for the survival of plants and is responsible for maintaining oxygen levels and providing the foundation of the food chain on Earth.