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Multiple Choice
Why is photosynthesis considered an endergonic process while cellular respiration is considered exergonic?
A
Photosynthesis requires an input of energy to build glucose molecules, whereas cellular respiration releases energy by breaking down glucose.
B
Photosynthesis releases energy as heat, while cellular respiration absorbs energy from the environment.
C
Photosynthesis and cellular respiration both release energy, but photosynthesis does so more slowly.
D
Photosynthesis breaks down glucose to release energy, while cellular respiration uses sunlight to build glucose.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the terms 'endergonic' and 'exergonic'. Endergonic processes require an input of energy to proceed, while exergonic processes release energy during the reaction.
Step 2: Analyze photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is an anabolic process where light energy is absorbed and used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This requires energy input, making it an endergonic process.
Step 3: Analyze cellular respiration. Cellular respiration is a catabolic process where glucose is broken down into carbon dioxide and water, releasing energy in the form of ATP. This release of energy makes it an exergonic process.
Step 4: Compare the two processes. Photosynthesis builds complex molecules (glucose) from simpler ones (CO₂ and H₂O) using energy, while cellular respiration breaks down complex molecules (glucose) into simpler ones (CO₂ and H₂O), releasing energy.
Step 5: Address the incorrect statements in the problem. Photosynthesis does not release energy as heat; it absorbs energy from sunlight. Cellular respiration does not absorb energy from the environment; it releases energy stored in glucose. Photosynthesis and cellular respiration do not both release energy; photosynthesis requires energy input, while cellular respiration releases energy.