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Photosynthesis & Respiration (OCR A Level Biology): Revision Note

Lára Marie McIvor

Last updated

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

Comparison table of photosynthesis, aerobic respiration, and anaerobic respiration detailing occurrences, energy use, reactions, products, and requirements.

Examiner Tips and Tricks

Remember, energy is never created or destroyed; it is converted from one form to another!

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    Lára Marie McIvor

    Author: Lára Marie McIvor

    Expertise: Biology Lead

    Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.