Question

Explain how the analogy of a ball and a hill is useful for describing the forms of energy to beginning physiology students. use the synthesis of glucose by plants and the break down of glucose by humans as specific examples of the energy hill.

Answer 1

On the one hand, the taking of the ball up the hill is analogous to the synthesis of glucose by plants. This is because it requires expending of energy (there is an intake of energy). Energy from the sun is required in photosynthesis. This is also tantamount to raising the potential energy for later use.

On the other hand, taking the ball down the slope of the hill is analogous to the breakdown of glucose. This is because energy is given out. When the ball is moved from the top of the hill (where it had more potential energy) to a lower point on the hill, energy has been given out just as energy is released in respiration.