Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration: Reactants and Products

Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration

Reactants of Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy from the sun into chemical energy in the form of glucose and oxygen. The reactants of photosynthesis are carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). Carbon dioxide is absorbed from the air through small openings in the leaves called stomata. Water is absorbed from the soil by the plant's roots and transported to the leaves through the xylem.

Products of Photosynthesis

The products of photosynthesis are glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2). Glucose is a type of sugar that plants use as a source of energy and as a building block for other organic compounds. Oxygen is released into the atmosphere as a waste product.

Reactants of Cellular Respiration

Cellular respiration is the process by which organisms break down glucose and other organic molecules to release energy in the form of ATP. The reactants of cellular respiration are glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2). Glucose is obtained from the breakdown of other organic molecules, such as glycogen and starch, while oxygen is obtained from the air through the lungs or gills.

Products of Cellular Respiration

The products of cellular respiration are carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). Carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere as a waste product, while water is used by the body for various functions, such as maintaining body temperature and lubricating joints.

Relationship between Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration

Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are interconnected processes. Photosynthesis is an anabolic process that converts carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Cellular respiration is a catabolic process that breaks down glucose and other organic molecules to release energy in the form of ATP. The products of one process are used as reactants in the other process. Carbon dioxide produced by cellular respiration is used by plants in photosynthesis, while oxygen produced by photosynthesis is used by organisms, including plants, for cellular respiration.

Learn about the reactants and products of photosynthesis and cellular respiration processes, and understand the relationship between the two essential biological processes.