Question

What is the chemical equation for photosynthesis? Examine the origin and destination of each molecule referred to in the equation. Do the same for cellular respiration.

Short answer

The chemical equation for photosynthesis is \[6CO_2 + 6H_2O \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2\] and the equation for cellular respiration is \[C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O\]. In photosynthesis, \(CO_2\) and \(H_2O\) from the environment are used to create glucose for the plant's use and \(O_2\) which is released back. In cellular respiration, glucose and oxygen are metabolized to generate energy, and produce \(CO_2\) and \(H_2O\) which are generally expelled from the organism.

Step-by-step solution

Photosynthesis equation

The chemical equation for photosynthesis is: \[6CO_2 + 6H_2O \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2\] where \(CO_2\) (carbon dioxide) and \(H_2O\) (water) are used to produce \(C_6H_{12}O_6\) (glucose) and \(O_2\) (oxygen).

Origins and destinations in photosynthesis

In photosynthesis, the origins are the \(CO_2\) from the surroundings and the \(H_2O\) drawn up from the roots of the plant. The products, \(C_6H_{12}O_6\) and \(O_2\), are used within the plant for energy and growth, and the excess \(O_2\) is released back into the surroundings.

Cellular respiration equation

The chemical equation for cellular respiration is: \[C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O\] In this process, glucose (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)) and oxygen (\(O_2\)) are used to produce carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)) and water (\(H_2O\)). This is essentially the reverse of the photosynthesis reaction.

Origins and destinations in cellular respiration

In cellular respiration, the glucose and oxygen are taken from the food and air, respectively, that the organism consumes. The resulting carbon dioxide is often expelled from the organism via breathing and the water can be used for different purposes within the organism or expelled as well.

Key concepts

Chemical Equations

In both photosynthesis and cellular respiration, chemical equations represent the processes that occur. These equations are crucial because they give a simple summary of complex processes, showing how energy is transformed in biological systems.
The chemical equation for photosynthesis is:\[6CO_2 + 6H_2O \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2\] This equation explains how plants transform sunlight into chemical energy: carbon dioxide and water are converted into glucose (a sugar) and oxygen, using light energy. This process takes place in the chloroplasts of plant cells.
The chemical equation for cellular respiration is the reverse:\[C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O\] This equation summarizes how living organisms break down glucose with oxygen to release energy, carbon dioxide, and water. This process occurs in all aerobic organisms, including those of animals, plants, and many microorganisms.

Energy Conversion

Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are prime examples of how organisms convert energy from one form to another to support life.
* **Photosynthesis**: Light energy from the sun is captured by plants and converted into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This process not only feeds the plant itself but also supplies energy to all organisms that rely on plants for food. * **Cellular Respiration**: The glucose produced in photosynthesis is broken down through cellular respiration, providing energy for cells to perform necessary functions. Energy is extracted and stored as ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the currency of energy in biological systems.

• This energy conversion is essential for growth, movement, and reproduction in living organisms.


• Without these processes, life as we know it would not be possible.

Biological Processes

Both photosynthesis and cellular respiration are critical biological processes that interact with their environment.
Photosynthesis is unique to plants, algae, and some bacteria, enabling them to produce their own food from sunlight. It's the means by which they draw in carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, affecting atmospheric composition. * **Role in Ecosystems**: These organisms form the base of the food chain, providing nourishment for herbivores and other plant-eating organisms.
On the flip side, cellular respiration is a universal process. It's carried out by almost all organisms to release energy from food. This process not only provides the energy needed for various life activities but also ensures the recycling of water and carbon dioxide back into the environment, fueling further cycles of photosynthesis. * **Balance in Nature**: Cellular respiration helps maintain the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, and facilitates the ongoing cycle of energy and matter.