18. Describe the relationship between photosynthesis and respiration. Use the word equations for each reaction.
Biology · High School · Thu Feb 04 2021
Answered on
Photosynthesis and respiration are interconnected biological processes that occur in living organisms.
Photosynthesis:
6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2
In photosynthesis, plants, algae, and some bacteria use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) into glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2). This process takes place in the chloroplasts of plant cells.
Respiration:
C6H12O6+6O2→6CO2+6H2O+energy
In cellular respiration, organisms, including plants, break down glucose (C6H12O6) in the presence of oxygen (O2) to produce carbon dioxide (CO2), water (H2O), and energy. Cellular respiration occurs in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells.
Relationship:
1.Interdependence: Photosynthesis and respiration are interconnected because the products of one process are the reactants of the other. Oxygen produced in photosynthesis is used in respiration, and carbon dioxide produced in respiration is used in photosynthesis.
2.Energy Conversion: Photosynthesis captures energy from sunlight and stores it in the form of glucose, which can later be used by the cell for energy during respiration.
3.Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide Exchange: Oxygen released during photosynthesis is used by organisms for respiration, and the carbon dioxide produced in respiration is used by plants during photosynthesis.
In summary, photosynthesis and respiration are complementary processes that maintain a balance of gases in the atmosphere and provide energy for the survival of living organisms. They create a continuous cycle of energy and matter flow within ecosystems.