Photosynthesis & Respiration

What is Photosynthesis? It is the most important chemical reaction on our planet. Process plants use to make their own food

Definition - Photosynthesis Photosynthesis is the process of converting light energy (sunlight) to chemical energy and storing it in sugar or glucose.

What Happens? Plants’ leaves contain chlorophyll Chlorophyll (green color) makes photosynthesis possible Carbon dioxide enters the leaf through holes called stomatastomata CO 2 combines with the stored energy in the chloroplasts through a chemical reaction to make glucose The sugar is moved through tubes in the leaf to the roots, stems and fruits of the plants Some of the sugar is used right away by the plant for energy; some is stored as starch; and some is built into plant tissue

What happens during photosynthesis?

The chlorophyll (found in chloroplast) absorbs the sunlight. In Detail, please…

The sunlight is combined with water, Carbon Dioxide and nutrients from the soil. CO 2

O2O2

What is the equation for the chemical reaction of photosynthesis? Carbon dioxide reacts with water to form glucose and oxygen. 6CO 2 + 6H 2 0  C 6 H 12 O 6 + 6O 2

Why is this important to us? The oxygen released during photosynthesis is necessary for all living things.

What is Cellular Respiration? A chemical process by which cells produce energy from food. Takes place in all living things. Occurs in the Mitochondria of the cell (Energy Powerhouse).

Describe Cellular Respiration The food we eat (or plants eat) is broken down into CO 2 and H 2 0 and energy is released. The CO 2 is exhaled when we breathe and the H 2 0 produced helps to maintain body temperature when we sweat. In addition to CO 2 and H 2 0, Cellular Respiration also forms ATP which supplies energy that fuels cell activities.

How are Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration related? During photosynthesis, cells take in CO 2 and release O 2. During cellular respiration, cells use O 2 to break down glucose (sugar/food) and release energy and CO 2.