What process would allow solar energy to be utilized as an inexhaustible source of power?

The process that allows solar energy to be utilized as an inexhaustible source of power is photovoltaic technology. This technology involves converting sunlight directly into electricity using solar cells, which are typically made of semiconductor materials. When sunlight hits these cells, it creates an electric field across the layers, allowing energy to flow as electricity. This process harnesses solar energy effectively and can produce a continuous power supply as long as there is sunlight, making it a renewable energy source.

Photosynthesis, while it does utilize solar energy, is a biological process in plants that converts light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This process is vital for the growth of plants and the foundation of most food chains but does not directly produce electricity.

Thermal expansion refers to the property of materials expanding when heated, which is not directly related to harnessing solar energy for power generation.

Nuclear fusion is a different scientific process in which atomic nuclei combine at extremely high temperatures to create heavier nuclei, releasing vast amounts of energy. Although fusion has the potential to provide vast energy, it does not utilize solar energy directly.

Thus, photovoltaic technology stands out as the method specifically designed for converting solar energy into a usable form of power, making it an inexhaustible source.