What is the difference between photosynthesis and cellular respiration?

1 Answer
Mar 16, 2016

Photosynthesis primarily occurs in plants, photosynthetic bacteria and algae. Respiration occurs in animals. Remember that these are both cellular processes and as such happen in individual cells.

Explanation:

Photosynthesis
The balanced equations for photosynthesis is
#6CO_2 + 12H_2O rightarrow C_6H_12O_6 + 6O_2 + 6H_2O#
This biochemical process is vital for pretty much all flora and fauna. Photosynthesis changes elements and compounds into nutrients.Without this process most food chains and ecosystems would collapse. Sometimes photosynthesis is thought of as an anabolic process.

Respiration
The balanced equation for cellular respiration is
#C_6H_12O_6 + 6O_2 → 6CO_2 + 6 H_2O + ATP#(energy)
This is the fundamental process by which organisms obtain energy from foodstuffs. It is of two types: anaerobic and aerobic. Aeroboic respiration produces more energy and is more efficient.