How Are Photosynthesis & Cellular Respiration Related?
Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are complementary biochemical reactions. Photosynthesis requires the products of respiration, while respiration requires the products of photosynthesis. Together these reactions allow cells to make and store energy and help regulate atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide and oxygen.
Function
Only autotrophic organisms like plants, algae and some bacteria can perform photosynthesis, while most organisms perform respiration. Autotrophic organisms perform both photosynthesis and respiration.
Photosynthesis
During photosynthesis light energy from the sun causes carbon dioxide and water to be transformed into glucose (sugar) and oxygen. (See reference 2 page 107)
Cellular Respiration
Respiration requires glucose and oxygen to make carbon dioxide and water. In the process, chemical energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is released.
Significance
ATP is the form of chemical energy all cells require to perform the functions necessary to life.
Photosynthesis releases oxygen into the atmosphere and absorbs carbon dioxide. Respiration requires oxygen to allow cells to make ATP.
Considerations
Respiration can also occur in yeast or bacteria in the absence of oxygen, and this process is called fermentation. Fermentation is the process that produces beer, wine, yogurt, soy sauce and other food products.
References
- Biology: Concepts and Connections; Neil A. Campbell; 2009
- Fermentation
Cite This Article
MLA
Veloz, Liz. "How Are Photosynthesis & Cellular Respiration Related?" sciencing.com, https://www.sciencing.com/how-are-photosynthesis-cellular-respiration-related-12226137/. 14 October 2009.
APA
Veloz, Liz. (2009, October 14). How Are Photosynthesis & Cellular Respiration Related?. sciencing.com. Retrieved from https://www.sciencing.com/how-are-photosynthesis-cellular-respiration-related-12226137/
Chicago
Veloz, Liz. How Are Photosynthesis & Cellular Respiration Related? last modified March 24, 2022. https://www.sciencing.com/how-are-photosynthesis-cellular-respiration-related-12226137/