Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration Study Guide

These flashcards cover key concepts related to photosynthesis and cellular respiration, including definitions, functions, and chemical equations.

What is ATP?

Adenosine triphosphate, a molecule that stores and transports chemical energy within cells.

What is ATP used for in cells?

ATP is used for cellular processes such as muscle contraction, nerve impulse propagation, and biosynthesis.

What are the parts of the ATP molecule?

The parts include adenine, ribose (a sugar), and three phosphate groups.

How is energy stored in the ATP molecule?

Energy is stored in the bonds between the phosphate groups of ATP.

Why are some organisms called producers?

Producers are organisms that can create their own food through photosynthesis; another name for a producer is autotroph.

What is the difference between an autotroph and a heterotroph?

Autotrophs produce their own food (like plants), while heterotrophs must consume other organisms for energy.

What is the function of photosynthesis?

The function of photosynthesis is to convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.

What is chlorophyll?

Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in plants that absorbs light energy for photosynthesis.

What are chloroplasts?

Chloroplasts are organelles in plant cells where photosynthesis occurs.

What macromolecule is used to store glucose in plants and in animals?

In plants, glucose is stored as starch; in animals, it is stored as glycogen.

Write the balanced chemical equation for photosynthesis. Identify reactants and products.

6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy -> C6H12O6 + 6O2; Reactants: Carbon dioxide and water; Products: Glucose and oxygen.

Explain what the equation of photosynthesis means.

It means that carbon dioxide and water, using sunlight, are converted into glucose and oxygen.

Write the balanced chemical equation for cellular respiration. Identify reactants and products.

C6H12O6 + 6O2 -> 6CO2 + 6H2O + ATP; Reactants: Glucose and oxygen; Products: Carbon dioxide, water, and ATP.

Explain what the equation of cellular respiration means.

It means that glucose and oxygen are broken down to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy (ATP).

What is glycolysis and where does it happen in a cell?

Glycolysis is the first step in cellular respiration where glucose is broken down into pyruvate, occurring in the cytoplasm.

Which organisms use glycolysis to make energy?

All organisms, including bacteria, plants, and animals, use glycolysis to produce energy.

Does fermentation require oxygen?

No, fermentation does not require oxygen; it occurs anaerobically.

Which form of cellular respiration makes the most ATP?

Aerobic respiration makes the most ATP, approximately 36 ATP per glucose molecule.

How are photosynthesis and cellular respiration related?

Photosynthesis converts carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, while cellular respiration uses glucose and oxygen to produce energy, water, and carbon dioxide.

Which part of cellular respiration makes the most ATP?

The electron transport chain makes the most ATP during cellular respiration.

What do chlorophyll and the Krebs cycle have in common with photosynthesis?

Chlorophyll is needed for photosynthesis, while the Krebs cycle is part of cellular respiration; both are essential processes for energy metabolism.