Unit 2: Energy, Matter, Life

What is the purpose of photosynthesis?

To make glucose for plants using light energy.

What are the inputs for photosynthesis?

CO₂ + H₂O.

What are the outputs of photosynthesis?

O₂ + C₆H₁₂O₆.

Where does photosynthesis occur?

In the chloroplasts.

What is the purpose of cellular respiration?

To release energy (ATP) from glucose.

What are the inputs for cellular respiration?

O₂ + C₆H₁₂O₆.

What are the outputs of cellular respiration?

CO₂ + H₂O + ATP.

Where does cellular respiration occur?

In the mitochondria.

What is ATP?

The cell’s main energy currency.

What type of energy is glucose considered to be?

Stored chemical (potential) energy.

What is the difference between aerobic and anaerobic energy production?

Aerobic produces more ATP using oxygen; anaerobic produces less ATP without oxygen and makes lactic acid.

What are the four stages of the water cycle?

Evaporation, condensation, transpiration, precipitation.

What powers the water cycle?

The Sun.

What adds carbon to the carbon cycle?

Respiration, volcanic eruptions, burning fossil fuels.

What removes carbon from the carbon cycle?

Photosynthesis.

How do decomposers contribute to the carbon cycle?

They return CO₂ by breaking down dead matter.

What is potential energy?

Stored energy (examples: spring, glucose, ATP, water on a cliff).

What is kinetic energy?

Energy of motion (examples: car, flying bat).

Give an example of energy transformation.

A bat lifting off transforms potential energy into kinetic energy.