Photosynthesis & Cellular Respiration EQ: How does carbon cycle within the biosphere?

Photosynthesis The word photosynthesis comes from two Greek words: photo meaning ‘light’ synthesis meaning putting together so photosynthesis means “putting together with light”.

Photosynthesis Plants used the absorbed light, available CO2 (carbon dioxide) and water to build sugar molecules and release oxygen back into the atmosphere Plants store energy on the forms of simple sugar (glucose)

Photosynthesis Equation Carbon Dioxide + Water + sunlight  Glucose + Oxygen 6 CO2 + 6 H2O + sunlight- C6 H12 O6 + 6 O2

Cellular Respiration Organisms eats the plants and their bodies break down the glucose and releases some of the carbon back into the air as Carbon Dioxide (CO2). Carbon is also released as Carbon Dioxide (CO2) through organic waste and the decay of the organism’s body. Water is also released during the respiration process.

Cellular Respiration Equation Glucose + Oxygen  Carbon Dioxide + Water + Energy C6 H12 O6 + 6 O2  6 CO2 + 6 H2O + Energy

Photosynthesis Cellular respiration Occurs in the presence of light Occurs at all times Requires energy (light) to make sugar (Glucose) Releases energy from sugar (Glucose) Carbon dioxide and water are the raw materials needed Carbon dioxide and water are the waste products Oxygen is given out Oxygen is taken in This cycle of photosynthesis and cellular respiration help maintains the balance of carbon dioxide and oxygen on earth.