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Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria make their own food using sunlight.
The end result of photosynthesis is glucose, a form of chemical energy.
Plants need sunlight, carbon dioxide (CO₂), and water (H₂O) to perform photosynthesis.
In the chloroplasts of plant cells, specifically in the leaves.
1) Plants take in sunlight through chlorophyll (the green pigment in leaves).
2) Plants absorb carbon dioxide through stomata (tiny openings in the leaves).
3) Roots absorb water from the soil.
4) Using energy from sunlight, plants convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose (a type of sugar) and oxygen.
Cellular Respiration Definition: All living cells burn glucose with oxygen to get energy to live. Cellular respiration is the process by which cells break down glucose (food) and convert it into energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
Where it happens: In the mitochondria of animal and plant cells.
Glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂) are used to produce energy. (ATP)
This process also produces carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) as waste products.
Why it’s important: Respiration is how living organisms get energy to carry out their functions. It occurs in all living things (plants, animals, fungi, etc.).
Opposite Processes: Photosynthesis and respiration are essentially opposite reactions.
Photosynthesis makes glucose and oxygen, using sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water.
Respiration breaks down glucose and oxygen to produce energy (ATP), releasing carbon dioxide and water.
Why both are important:
Photosynthesis produces the food and oxygen necessary for life.
Respiration provides the energy needed for living organisms to grow, move, and perform other life functions.
Interdependence:
The oxygen produced in photosynthesis is used in respiration.
The carbon dioxide produced in respiration is used in photosynthesis.
Energy Flow: Plants use sunlight to make their own food, and animals (including humans) consume plants or other animals to get energy.
The Cycle: Photosynthesis and respiration work together in a cycle that maintains life on Earth. Plants help produce oxygen and food, while animals contribute to the cycle by releasing carbon dioxide.