Question

Which organisms are capable of using light energy to synthesize chemical compounds?

• A. Carnivores
• B. Parasites
• C. Autotrophs
• D. Herbivores

Hint:

Autotrophs:
• Prepare their own food
• Use sunlight
• Perform photosynthesis Examples: \[ \text{Green plants and algae} \]

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept:
Organisms that can prepare their own food using sunlight are called: \[ \boxed{\text{Autotrophs}} \] They perform: \[ \text{Photosynthesis} \] In photosynthesis:
• Light energy is absorbed
• Carbon dioxide and water are converted into glucose
• Oxygen is released The photosynthesis equation is: \[ 6CO_2 + 6H_2O \xrightarrow[\text{Chlorophyll}]{\text{Sunlight}} C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \]

Step 1: Understand organisms using light energy.
The question asks about organisms that:
• Use sunlight
• Synthesize chemical compounds
• Produce their own food These organisms are called autotrophs.

Step 2: Understand autotrophs.
Examples:
• Green plants
• Algae
• Some bacteria They contain chlorophyll which traps solar energy.

Step 3: Analyze all options carefully.
Option (A): Carnivores
Animals that feed on other animals. Cannot synthesize food using sunlight. Incorrect. Option (B): Parasites
Depend on host organisms for food. Incorrect. Option (C): Autotrophs
Prepare food using light energy. Correct. Option (D): Herbivores
Animals feeding on plants. Cannot perform photosynthesis. Incorrect.

Step 4: Select the correct answer.
Thus, organisms capable of using light energy to synthesize chemical compounds are: \[ \boxed{\text{Autotrophs}} \] Hence, \[ \boxed{(3)\ \text{Autotrophs}} \]