Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration

Key Concepts

Definition of Photosynthesis: The process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose, using carbon dioxide and water.
Definition of Cellular Respiration: A metabolic process that breaks down glucose and other organic molecules to produce energy (ATP), water, and carbon dioxide.

Autotrophs (Producers): Organisms that produce their own food through photosynthesis.
- Examples: Plants, Algae, Most Bacteria (e.g., phytoplankton).
Heterotrophs (Consumers): Organisms that cannot make their own food and rely on consuming other organisms.
- Examples: Animals, Fungi, Some Bacteria, Protozoa.

Carbon Cycle Components:
- Pollution: Emission of CO2 into the atmosphere.
- Combustion: Burning fossil fuels (oil, coal, gas) releases CO2.
- Decomposition: Breakdown of organic material contributes to carbon regeneration in soil and atmosphere.
- Photosynthesis: Captures CO2 from the atmosphere to synthesize organic molecules.
- Cellular Respiration: Converts organic molecules back to CO2, releasing energy.
Energy Flow in Ecosystems:
- Energy enters ecosystems as light.
- After photosynthesis, energy exists ecosystems as heat during cellular respiration.

Chemical Equation:
- Input: Water (H2O) + Carbon Dioxide (CO2) + Light Energy
- Output: Glucose (C6H12O6) + Oxygen (O2)
Location: Occurs in chloroplasts of plant cells.
Types of Molecules Produced: Sucrose, Starch, Cellulose.

Chemical Equation:
- Input: Glucose (C6H12O6) + Oxygen (O2)
- Output: Water (H2O) + Carbon Dioxide (CO2) + ATP (energy)
Location: Takes place in mitochondria of cells.

Overall Relationship: Photosynthesis stores energy in the form of glucose, while cellular respiration releases that energy for use by the organism.