What is the relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respiration?

Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are fundamental processes that are intimately linked, forming a cycle that sustains life on Earth. They are, in essence, opposite reactions.

• Photosynthesis: This process uses light energy, water (H₂O), and carbon dioxide (CO₂) to produce <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/glucose">glucose</a> (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂). Plants, algae, and some bacteria perform photosynthesis. Think of it as capturing sunlight's energy and storing it in sugar molecules.

• Cellular Respiration: This process breaks down <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/glucose">glucose</a> in the presence of oxygen to produce <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/atp">ATP</a> (the cell's energy currency), water (H₂O), and carbon dioxide (CO₂). Most living organisms, including plants and animals, perform cellular respiration. Think of it as releasing the energy stored in sugar molecules for the cell to use.

The relationship can be summarized as follows:

• The products of photosynthesis (glucose and oxygen) are the reactants of cellular respiration.
• The products of cellular respiration (carbon dioxide and water) are the reactants of photosynthesis.

This creates a cyclical exchange of matter and energy. Photosynthesis converts light energy into chemical energy (glucose), while cellular respiration converts chemical energy (glucose) into usable energy (ATP). Carbon and oxygen atoms cycle between the atmosphere, living organisms, and the earth. These processes are essential for maintaining the balance of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/carbon%20cycle">carbon cycle</a> and <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/oxygen%20cycle">oxygen cycle</a>.