Explain how the chemical equation for cellular respiration shows that plans cycle matter
The chemical equation for cellular respiration is:
C6H12O6 + 6O2 -> 6CO2 + 6H2O + energy (ATP)
This equation shows that plants cycle matter because it represents the metabolic process by which plants convert glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2) into carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) while releasing energy in the form of ATP.
Plants take in carbon dioxide and water from the environment and use the energy from sunlight to convert them into glucose through photosynthesis. This glucose is then used during cellular respiration, where it is broken down into carbon dioxide and water, releasing energy that is stored in the form of ATP.
The released carbon dioxide and water are then released back into the environment, where they can be used by other organisms or be taken up by plants again during photosynthesis. This continuous cycling of matter ensures that essential elements like carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen are constantly recycled and available for use by living organisms. Therefore, the chemical equation for cellular respiration demonstrates the cyclic nature of matter in plants.