A fellow student is studying the differences between photosynthesis and cellular respiration.
The student asks you to explain how cellular respiration uniquely contributes to the carbon
cycle. In 3–5 sentences, describe the different ways that both photosynthesis and cellular
respiration contribute to the carbon cycle. (4 points)
Both photosynthesis and cellular respiration play crucial roles in the carbon cycle. During photosynthesis, plants and some microorganisms convert carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into glucose, which is a form of stored energy. This process removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helps regulate its levels. On the other hand, during cellular respiration, organisms including plants, animals, and humans break down glucose to release energy for their cells. This process releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere, completing the carbon cycle and ensuring a continuous exchange of carbon between living organisms and the environment. Thus, while photosynthesis removes carbon dioxide, cellular respiration adds it back into the carbon cycle.
