The key difference between photosynthesis and respiration is that photosynthesis converts into glucose and oxygen while respiration converts glucose and oxygen into energy and carbon dioxide.
What is Photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis is the biological process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy from the sun into chemical energy in the form of glucose. It is a complex series of reactions that take place within the chloroplasts of plant cells.
During photosynthesis, chlorophyll, a pigment found in chloroplasts, captures light energy and initiates a chain of chemical reactions. These reactions occur in two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (also known as the Calvin cycle)
What is Respiration?
Respiration is a biological process that occurs in living organisms, including plants, animals, and some microorganisms. It involves the release of energy from organic molecules (such as glucose) to support the cellular activities necessary for life.
In respiration, the organic molecules are broken down in a series of chemical reactions, primarily through a process called cellular respiration.
Photosynthesis vs respiration
Respiration and photosynthesis are two fundamental biological processes that occur in living organisms, but they are distinct from each other in terms of their functions, locations, and the chemical reactions involved.
| Aspect | Photosynthesis | Respiration |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy (ATP) and carbon dioxide. | Process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy (ATP) and carbon dioxide. |
| Location | Occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells. | Takes place in the mitochondria of cells. |
| Reactants | Carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight. | Glucose and oxygen. |
| Products | Glucose and oxygen. | Carbon dioxide, water, and energy (ATP). |
| Energy Transfer | Converts light energy into chemical energy. | Releases chemical energy stored in glucose. |
| Purpose | To produce food (glucose) for the plant. | To provide energy for cellular activities. |
| Carbon Dioxide Role | Absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. | Releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. |
| Oxygen Role | Releases oxygen into the atmosphere. | Absorbs oxygen from the atmosphere. |
| Energy Production | Consumes energy (endergonic process). | Produces energy (exergonic process). |
| Organisms Involved | Primarily plants, algae, and some bacteria. | Occurs in all living organisms, including plants. |
| Chemical Equation | 6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy -> C6H12O6 + 6O2 | C6H12O6 + 6O2 -> 6CO2 + 6H2O + ATP |