Chloroplasts
Chloroplasts capture the energy in sunlight and use it to synthesize energy-rich carbohydrates. This food made by chloroplasts provides the chemical energy needed by all forms of life. Mitochondria help cells to extract the energy in food molecules efficiently to power cellular activities.
At least 40 percent of the world’s economy and 80 percent of the needs of the poor are derived from biological resources. In addition, the richer the diversity of life, the greater the opportunity for medical discoveries, economic development, and adaptive responses to such new challenges as climate change.
Cellular respiration and photosynthesis are important parts of the carbon cycle. The carbon cycle is the pathways through which carbon is recycled in the biosphere. While cellular respiration releases carbon dioxide into the environment, photosynthesis pulls carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere.
