September 27, 2025

What Is The Difference Between Photosynthesis And Cellular Respiration

Q: Which organisms perform photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is primarily performed by plants, algae, and some bacteria, known as autotrophs. They create their own food.

Q: Do plants perform cellular respiration?

Yes, plants perform both. They use photosynthesis to create glucose and then use cellular respiration to break down that glucose for the energy needed to live and grow, just like animals do.

Learn the key differences between photosynthesis and cellular respiration, the two fundamental processes for energy conversion in living organisms.

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Energy Conversion: Capturing vs. Releasing

The main difference between photosynthesis and cellular respiration is their function regarding energy. Photosynthesis is the process of capturing light energy from the sun and converting it into chemical energy in the form of glucose (sugar). Cellular respiration is the process of breaking down glucose to release that stored chemical energy as ATP, which cells can use to power their activities.

Reactants and Products: A Mirrored Relationship

The two processes are nearly opposite in terms of their inputs and outputs. Photosynthesis uses carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), and light energy to produce glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂). Conversely, cellular respiration uses glucose and oxygen to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy (ATP).

Frequently Asked Questions

Which organisms perform photosynthesis?

Do plants perform cellular respiration?