What is the series of processes in which light energy is converted into simple sugar called?

The process in which light energy is converted into simple sugars is known as photosynthesis. This is a fundamental biological process that occurs primarily in plants, algae, and some bacteria. During photosynthesis, sunlight is absorbed by chlorophyll, the green pigment found in the chloroplasts of plant cells. The absorbed light energy drives the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into glucose (a simple sugar) and oxygen, which is released as a byproduct.

Photosynthesis is crucial not only for the production of sugars that serve as energy sources for the plants themselves but also for forming the base of the food chain for all life forms on Earth. This process directly impacts ecosystems, agriculture, and even the global climate by influencing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.

While respiration refers to the process of breaking down glucose to release energy for cellular functions, metabolism encompasses all biochemical reactions within organisms, including both photosynthesis and respiration. Translocation involves the movement of nutrients and sugars within the plant but does not pertain to the conversion of light energy into sugars. Hence, photosynthesis stands out as the key process being described in the question.