What is the process called by which chemical energy, stored as sugar and water, is released?

The process referred to is respiration, which is vital for the energy needs of plants and other living organisms. During respiration, cells break down glucose (which is a form of sugar) in the presence of oxygen to release energy, carbon dioxide, and water. This energy is then utilized for various cellular activities that support growth, maintenance, and reproduction.

In contrast, photosynthesis involves the conversion of light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose, using carbon dioxide and water, not the releasing of energy from sugars. Transpiration is the process of water vapor being released from plant leaves into the atmosphere, which is unrelated to energy release. Fermentation is an anaerobic process that also releases energy from glucose, but it typically occurs without oxygen and produces different byproducts. Thus, respiration is the correct answer as it specifically describes the process of releasing energy from stored sugar.