Respiration vs. Photosynthesis: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 12, 2023
Respiration refers to cellular process converting O2 to CO2, releasing energy. Photosynthesis refers to plants convert light energy, CO2, and H2O into glucose and O2.
Key Differences
Respiration is a cellular activity that happens in every living cell, wherein they intake oxygen and give out carbon dioxide, releasing energy. Photosynthesis is a contrasting yet complimentary process, majorly occurring in plants, which takes in carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, utilizing light energy to form glucose.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
The key aspect of respiration is to produce energy by breaking down glucose and other metabolites, emitting carbon dioxide as a byproduct. In photosynthesis, plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, a type of sugar that provides energy to the plant, releasing oxygen as a side product.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
When considering the site of occurrence, respiration predominantly takes place in the mitochondria of cells. On the other hand, photosynthesis happens primarily in the chloroplasts of plant cells, utilizing the chlorophyll pigment to capture sunlight.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
Remarkably, respiration and photosynthesis interlink in a way where the output of one process becomes the input for the other, maintaining a balance in the ecosystem. While respiration exhales carbon dioxide, photosynthesis consumes it, and conversely, photosynthesis exhales oxygen which is used by organisms for respiration.
Sara Rehman
Oct 12, 2023
Through respiration, organisms utilize oxygen to facilitate their metabolic activities and sustain life. Photosynthesis ensures the continual availability of this vital oxygen, allowing life to thrive, while also aiding in energy transfer through ecosystems by forming glucose which serves as a primary energy source for many organisms.
Janet White
Oct 12, 2023
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Comparison Chart
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Respiration and Photosynthesis Definitions
Respiration
Respiration also denotes cellular activity converting nutrients into energy.
Cellular respiration provides energy to the cells to perform functions.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 12, 2023
Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis utilizes water, carbon dioxide, and sunlight, mainly in plants.
Plants absorb water and carbon dioxide to perform photosynthesis.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 12, 2023
Respiration
In physiology, respiration involves exchanging gases with the environment.
Through respiration, oxygen enters and carbon dioxide exits our body.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis is the process through which plants create their own food.
Photosynthesis enables plants to produce oxygen as a byproduct.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
Respiration
Respiration refers to the process of breathing.
He paused to catch his respiration after the rigorous exercise.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
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Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplasts, utilizing chlorophyll.
Chlorophyll captures sunlight to perform photosynthesis in the leaves.
Harlon Moss
Oct 12, 2023
Respiration
Respiration can imply the mechanism enabling aerobic organisms to survive.
Respiration in humans involves lungs to facilitate air intake and expulsion.
Harlon Moss
Oct 12, 2023
Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis plays a crucial role in oxygen production for our planet.
Oxygen available in our atmosphere is primarily due to photosynthesis.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
Respiration
In a broad sense, respiration elucidates an organism’s energy production method.
Plant respiration takes place throughout the day and night, utilizing stored energy.
Huma Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis involves the conversion of light energy into chemical energy.
Through photosynthesis, sunlight is utilized to generate glucose.
Huma Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
Respiration
The action or process of inhaling and exhaling; breathing. Also called ventilation.
Sumera Saeed
Mar 14, 2017
Photosynthesis
The process in green plants and certain other organisms by which carbohydrates are synthesized from carbon dioxide and a source of hydrogen (usually water), using light as an energy source. Most forms of photosynthesis release oxygen as a byproduct.
Sumera Saeed
Mar 14, 2017
FAQs
Where in the plant does photosynthesis mainly occur?
Photosynthesis mainly occurs in the leaves of a plant, specifically in the chloroplasts.
Sara Rehman
Oct 12, 2023
What is the chemical equation for respiration?
The chemical equation for respiration is C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O + energy (ATP).
Aimie Carlson
Oct 12, 2023
Where does respiration take place in the cell?
Respiration primarily occurs in the mitochondria of the cell.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
What is respiration?
Respiration is a biochemical process in cells that converts nutrients into energy, using oxygen and producing carbon dioxide.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
How does the process of photosynthesis impact the environment?
Photosynthesis reduces carbon dioxide levels, produces oxygen, and helps in forming the basis of food chains in ecosystems.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
What role does chlorophyll play in photosynthesis?
Chlorophyll absorbs light energy, which drives the reactions in photosynthesis.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
How does photosynthesis work?
Photosynthesis uses sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen in the chloroplasts of plant cells.
Huma Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
What is the chemical equation for photosynthesis?
The chemical equation for photosynthesis is 6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2.
Harlon Moss
Oct 12, 2023
Why is photosynthesis important for life on Earth?
Photosynthesis produces oxygen, essential for aerobic life, and generates glucose, providing energy for organisms.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
Why is respiration crucial for living organisms?
Respiration is vital for producing the energy required for cells to carry out their functions.
Sara Rehman
Oct 12, 2023
Which organisms undergo photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis is typically found in plants, algae, and certain bacteria like cyanobacteria.
Janet White
Oct 12, 2023
What are the end products of respiration?
The end products of respiration are carbon dioxide, water, and energy in the form of ATP.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023
Can photosynthesis occur without sunlight?
No, photosynthesis requires sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.
Harlon Moss
Oct 12, 2023
Is respiration a daytime or nighttime process?
Respiration in cells occurs continuously, both during the day and night.
Sara Rehman
Oct 12, 2023
Do animals participate in the process of photosynthesis?
No, animals do not perform photosynthesis; they rely on respiration to gain energy.
Sara Rehman
Oct 12, 2023
What are the end products of photosynthesis?
The end products of photosynthesis are glucose and oxygen.
Sara Rehman
Oct 12, 2023
Can respiration occur in plants?
Yes, plants undergo respiration to generate energy, especially during the absence of sunlight.
Harlon Moss
Oct 12, 2023
Is water required for respiration?
Yes, water is a byproduct of cellular respiration and is also used in some metabolic pathways.
Janet White
Oct 12, 2023
Can photosynthesis happen in artificial light?
Yes, photosynthesis can occur under artificial light if the light spectrum mimics that of sunlight.
Janet White
Oct 12, 2023
Are respiration and photosynthesis related?
Yes, they are inversely related as respiration consumes oxygen and produces carbon dioxide, while photosynthesis consumes carbon dioxide and produces oxygen.
Harlon Moss
Oct 12, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
