What capability does the battery have in terms of energy conversion?

The capacity of a battery to store chemical energy and convert it into electrical energy is fundamental to its operation. In a battery, energy is stored in the form of chemical potential in the materials constituting its electrodes and the electrolyte. When a battery is connected in a circuit, a chemical reaction occurs, allowing the stored chemical energy to be transformed into electrical energy, which can then be utilized to power devices. This energy conversion process is what enables batteries to serve as reliable sources of electricity for a wide array of applications, from small gadgets to larger power systems.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the working principle of a standard battery. For example, the notion of storing electrical energy to convert it into chemical energy typically describes a different process, like charging in supercapacitors or certain types of batteries during the charging phase. Storing mechanical energy and converting it into electrical energy pertains more to devices like generators or flywheels, while converting electrical energy into mechanical energy aligns with electric motors. Therefore, option C accurately encapsulates the essence of a battery's function regarding energy conversion.