Biology Chapter: Photosynthesis and Respiration

Photosynthesis

• Photosynthesis is the process where plants and some organisms use sunlight to create food from carbon dioxide and water.
• It's vital for producing atmospheric oxygen.
• Chlorophyll absorbs light energy, driving the process.
• Water is split, releasing oxygen as a byproduct.
• Carbon dioxide is used to build sugars.
• Glucose and oxygen are the main products.

Aerobic Respiration

• Aerobic respiration releases energy from glucose in the presence of oxygen.
• It's a highly efficient process, producing a lot of ATP (energy).
• It occurs within mitochondria.
• Glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain are involved.
• Carbon dioxide, water, and ATP are the final products.

Anaerobic Respiration (Fermentation)

• Anaerobic respiration (fermentation) releases glucose energy without oxygen.
• It's less efficient than aerobic respiration, making significantly less ATP.
• Common types include alcoholic fermentation (in yeast) and lactic acid fermentation (in muscle cells).
• Alcoholic fermentation produces ethanol and carbon dioxide.
• Lactic acid fermentation generates lactic acid.

Respiration (General)

• Respiration encompasses both aerobic and anaerobic processes.
• It's the process of getting energy from organic molecules like glucose, typically in the form of ATP.
• Bonds in organic molecules are broken to release stored energy for cellular functions.

Stomata

• Stomata are tiny pores on plant leaves that control gas exchange.
• They take in carbon dioxide for photosynthesis and release oxygen and water vapor.
• They open and close based on environmental factors like light, humidity, and water availability.
• Guard cells regulate stomata opening and closing.

Leaf Structure

• Leaves are specially designed for photosynthesis.
• The broad, flat leaf blade maximizes sunlight exposure.
• The epidermis protects the upper and lower leaf surfaces.
• Veins transport water, nutrients, and sugars within the leaf.
• Stomata are typically located on the underside of the leaf to reduce water loss.

What is Respiration?

• Respiration is the process where organisms obtain energy from organic molecules.
• This involves breaking down molecules, releasing chemical energy, and creating usable energy, typically ATP.

What are Stomata?

• Stomata are tiny pores on leaves and other plant parts, vital for gas exchange.
• They enable carbon dioxide intake for photosynthesis, releasing oxygen and water vapor.
• Stomata size and function are controlled by guard cells to optimize gas exchange, and water conservation.