Question

Describe the similarities and differences between the biochemical pathways of aerobic respiration and photosynthesis in eukaryotic cells.
a) Include in your discussion the major reactions,
b) the end products,
c) energy transfers.

Answer 1

Answer:

SIMILARITIES:

• Both photosynthesis and aerobic respiration are biochemical processes.

• Both processes make energy.

• Both are reduction-oxidation reactions.

• The electron transport chain is required in both.

• The process of chemiosmosis can be seen in both processes.

DIFFERENCES

1. In the reaction for cellular respiration, a glucose molecule combines with an oxygen molecule and energy is released. Water and carbon dioxide are the by-products of this reaction. In a photosynthetic reaction, water and carbon dioxide combine in the presence of light energy to form glucose and oxygen. Hence, both the processes are opposite of each other.

2. The process of photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplast whereas the process of aerobic reaction occurs in the mitochondria.

3. In photosynthesis, light energy is converted into chemical energy whereas, in respiration, chemical energy released by oxidizing food is used to form ATP.