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University of Cambridge
Daisy F. Biology 9 months ago
Interrelationship Between Processes
Similarities Photosynthesis and cell respiration both involve the production of chemical energy (ATP)
Comparison of ATP Production
Photosynthesis and cell respiration are in many respects the reverse of one another
Differences Between Photosynthesis and Cell Respiration
The relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respiration is such that the products of one system are the reactants of the other. Photosynthesis involves the use of energy from sunlight, water and carbon dioxide to produce glucose and oxygen. Cellular respiration uses glucose and oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water. To emphasize this point even more, the equation for photosynthesis is the opposite of cellular respiration. Humans, animals and plants depend on the cycle of cellular respiration and photosynthesis for survival. The oxygen produced by plants during photosynthesis is what humans and animals inhale for the blood to transport to the cells for respiration. The carbon dioxide produced during respiration is released from the body and absorbed by plants to help provide the energy they need for growth and development. This is the never ending cycle that sustains life on earth. The process of photosynthesis is used by plants and other photosynthetic organisms to produce energy, whereas the process of cellular respiration breaks down the energy for use. Despite the differences between these two processes, there are some similarities. For example, both processes synthesize and use ATP, the energy currency. Below are some of the similarities and differences between these two systems. Similarities between Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration
Differences between Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration
The cycle of photosynthesis and respiration maintains the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Photosynthesis produces the oxygen to replenish oxygen that is used up by living organisms during respiration. Carbon dioxide produced during respiration is one of the reactants plants need to perform photosynthesis. Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are both part of a mutually beneficial relationship. Cellular respiration cannot occur without photosynthesis, and photosynthesis certainly cannot occur without the help of its partner. |