Photosynthesis vs cellular respiration
Photosynthesis stores energy in glucose; respiration releases it.
The common mistake
Thinking plants only photosynthesize and don't respire, or swapping the inputs and outputs.
Instead: Photosynthesis: CO₂ + water + light → glucose + O₂ (chloroplasts). Respiration: glucose + O₂ → CO₂ + water + ATP (mitochondria). Plants do both.
Worked example with Guide me
Which gas does a plant release at night?
- Sugar · Can it photosynthesize without light?Student · No.
- Sugar · Is it still respiring?Student · Yes, all the time.
- Sugar · What does respiration release?Student · Carbon dioxide.
Answer: Carbon dioxide
Try 3 practice questions
1. Where does photosynthesis happen?
Show answer
Chloroplasts
2. What molecule does respiration make for energy?
Show answer
ATP
3. Name the two products of photosynthesis.
Show answer
Glucose and oxygen
Quick answers
- What is the most common mistake with photosynthesis vs cellular respiration?
- Thinking plants only photosynthesize and don't respire, or swapping the inputs and outputs.
- How do I get photosynthesis vs cellular respiration right?
- Photosynthesis: CO₂ + water + light → glucose + O₂ (chloroplasts). Respiration: glucose + O₂ → CO₂ + water + ATP (mitochondria). Plants do both.
- Can you show a worked example?
- Which gas does a plant release at night? Carbon dioxide
Related concepts
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