Light energy is converted into chemical energy in organic molecules called carbohydrates, specifically glucose.

This process is called photosynthesis and happens in plants, algae, and some bacteria. Here's a breakdown:

1. Light absorption: Chlorophyll, a pigment in plants, absorbs light energy.

2. Water splitting: The absorbed light energy is used to split water molecules into hydrogen ions (H+) and oxygen (O2).

3. Carbon dioxide fixation: Carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is captured and combined with hydrogen ions to form glucose (C6H12O6).

4. Energy storage: The glucose molecule stores the chemical energy originally captured from light.

This stored chemical energy in glucose is then used by the plant for growth, reproduction, and other life processes. Animals obtain this chemical energy by consuming plants or other animals that have eaten plants.