Photosynthesis & Respiration
- Photosynthesis occurs in autotrophic organisms such as plants, algae and cyanobacteria
- In the process of photosynthesis, light energy is trapped and used to convert simple inorganic compounds into complex organic compounds. Energy is stored within these organic compounds
- Respiration occurs in all living organisms
- Respiration is the process by which energy is released from organic molecules in living cells. The process can be aerobic (using oxygen) or anaerobic (without using oxygen)
- There are several similarities and differences between photosynthesis and the two types of respiration
- For example, the coenzyme NADP is used in photosynthesis whereas the coenzyme NAD is used in both aerobic and anaerobic respiration
Comparing Photosynthesis & Respiration Table
Examiner Tip
Remember, energy is never created or destroyed; it is converted from one form to another!
