Photosynthesis and cellular respiration review answer key – Embark on an enlightening journey into the realm of photosynthesis and cellular respiration, two fundamental processes that sustain life on Earth. This comprehensive review answer key unlocks the intricate workings of these vital functions, providing a profound understanding of their significance, mechanisms, and interconnectedness.
Through an exploration of photosynthesis’s role in converting light energy into chemical energy and cellular respiration’s involvement in releasing that energy for cellular activities, this guide illuminates the delicate balance that maintains life’s equilibrium.
Photosynthesis: Photosynthesis And Cellular Respiration Review Answer Key
Photosynthesis is a fundamental biological process that converts light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose molecules. This process is vital for the survival of plants, algae, and some bacteria, and it serves as the primary source of energy for most living organisms.
Photosynthesis occurs in two stages: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle). The light-dependent reactions use light energy to generate ATP and NADPH, which are energy-carrier molecules. The light-independent reactions use ATP and NADPH to convert carbon dioxide into glucose.
Role of Light and Chlorophyll
Light is the primary energy source for photosynthesis. Chlorophyll, a green pigment found in plant cells, absorbs light energy and uses it to excite electrons. These excited electrons are then used to generate ATP and NADPH.
Light-Dependent Reactions, Photosynthesis and cellular respiration review answer key
The light-dependent reactions take place in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts. These reactions use light energy to generate ATP and NADPH. The ATP and NADPH are then used in the light-independent reactions to convert carbon dioxide into glucose.
Light-Independent Reactions (Calvin Cycle)
The light-independent reactions take place in the stroma of chloroplasts. These reactions use ATP and NADPH generated in the light-dependent reactions to convert carbon dioxide into glucose. The glucose is then used by plants for energy or stored as starch for later use.
FAQ Section
What is the significance of photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis provides the foundation for life on Earth by converting light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose, the primary energy source for most living organisms.
How does cellular respiration differ from photosynthesis?
Cellular respiration utilizes the chemical energy stored in glucose to produce ATP, the universal energy currency of cells, while photosynthesis harnesses light energy to create glucose.
How are photosynthesis and cellular respiration interconnected?
Photosynthesis generates the glucose that cellular respiration breaks down to release energy, forming a continuous cycle that sustains life.
