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Multiple Choice
How are the inputs and outputs of photosynthesis and cellular respiration related to one another?
A
Both processes use oxygen and release carbon dioxide as their main outputs.
B
Cellular respiration produces glucose and oxygen, which are used by photosynthesis.
C
The outputs of photosynthesis are the inputs of cellular respiration, and vice versa.
D
Photosynthesis and respiration have completely unrelated inputs and outputs.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the processes: Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are complementary biochemical processes. Photosynthesis occurs in plants, algae, and some bacteria, converting light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. Cellular respiration occurs in most organisms, breaking down glucose to release energy in the form of ATP.
Identify the inputs and outputs of photosynthesis: Photosynthesis uses carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), and light energy as inputs to produce glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂) as outputs. The chemical equation for photosynthesis is:
Identify the inputs and outputs of cellular respiration: Cellular respiration uses glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂) as inputs to produce carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), and ATP (energy) as outputs. The chemical equation for cellular respiration is:
Compare the inputs and outputs: Notice that the outputs of photosynthesis (glucose and oxygen) are the inputs for cellular respiration, and the outputs of cellular respiration (carbon dioxide and water) are the inputs for photosynthesis. This creates a cyclical relationship between the two processes.
Conclude the relationship: The outputs of photosynthesis are the inputs of cellular respiration, and vice versa. This interdependence highlights the balance of energy and matter in ecosystems, where photosynthesis captures energy and cellular respiration releases it for use by organisms.