Photosynthesis And Cellular Respiration Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Photosynthesis And Cellular Respiration?

Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are two of the most fundamental biological processes. Both processes are used by organisms to convert energy from the environment into usable forms. Photosynthesis is a process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria capture light energy and convert it into chemical energy stored in organic molecules such as glucose. Cellular respiration is the breakdown of these organic molecules in order to release this stored energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Both photosynthesis and cellular respiration can be seen as opposite sides of a coin, as each process requires the other for completion. Photosynthesis is a two-stage process that begins with light reaction, during which light is captured and converted into chemical energy in the form of ATP molecules and NADPH molecules (reducing power). This chemical energy then powers the second stage, known as the Calvin cycle or dark reaction, wherein carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is fixed into carbohydrate molecules such as glucose. The end product of this entire process are carbohydrates such as glucose that can be used to build new cells or provide immediate fuel for cellular activities such as movement or growth. Cellular respiration on the other hand involves breaking down these same carbohydrate molecules that were created during photosynthesis in order to release their stored chemical energy in an efficient manner. This breakdown occurs via three main stages: glycolysis, Krebs cycle (or citric acid cycle), and electron transport chain/oxidative phosphorylation. During glycolysis glucose gets broken down into pyruvate which then enters Krebs cycle where it gets further broken down until finally electrons from NADH & FADH2 enter an electron transport chain where they get transferred between various carriers until finally oxygen receives them resulting in water being formed at end of this chain along with high-energy phosphate bonds being formed between ADP & Pi forming ATP molecule thus releasing usable energy from organic molecule. Thus all three stages ultimately result in formation of large amount ATP molecules needed for metabolic activities within cell. In conclusion, photosynthesis and cellular respiration are two essential processes necessary for life on earth to exist; they work together toward a common goal converting environmental resources into fuel for living organisms. While both processes take place within cells at different times depending on need; one cannot occur without presence of other highlighting importance both have towards maintaining healthy ecosystem on Earth.