Main Differences between Photosynthesis and Respiration in table form

On this page we will discuss what are the main differences between Photosynthesis and Respiration in table form for an easy understanding.

What is Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis according to National Geographic, is the process by which plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create oxygen and energy in the form of sugar.

What is Respiration

Respiration is the biochemical process in which the cells of an organism obtain energy by combining oxygen and glucose, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide, water, and ATP (the currency of energy in cells).  From prokaryotic bacteria and archaeans to eukaryotic protists, fungi, plants, and animals, all living organisms undergo respiration.

Main Differences between Photosynthesis and Respiration in table form

Below is the main differences between Photosynthesis and Respiration in table form

Basis of Comparison	Photosynthesis	Respiration
Meaning	It is the process in which green plants and few bacteria use sunlight and water to convert it into energy.	It refers to the process in which all living organisms except plants convert energy and offer to the different cells of the body.
Occurrence	Occurs in plants containing chlorophyll and some bacteria	Occurs in all living organisms
By-Products	Glucose, oxygen, and water	Carbon dioxide, water, and energy (ATP)
Process	It takes place in chloroplasts	It takes place in mitochondria
Undergoes	Anabolic process	Catabolic process
Reactants	Carbon dioxide, water, and light energy	Glucose and oxygen
Reaction	Endothermic reaction because it needs energy	Exergonic reaction because it releases energy
Function	Produces food and captures the energy	Takes in oxygen and liberates out carbon dioxide
Sunlight	Requires sunlight because it is mandatory	Does not require sunlight as it takes place all the time
CO2 and water	Absorbs carbon dioxide and water	Releases carbon dioxide and water
Chemical reaction	6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2	C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O

Why are photosynthesis and respiration important

Why are photosynthesis and respiration important? Well, respiration and photosynthesis are the critical 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. 

What are the 6 steps of the carbon cycle

There are six main processes in the carbon cycle: 

1. photosynthesis,
2. respiration,
3. exchange,
4. sedimentation,
5. extraction,
6. and combustion. 

Sources

https://www.thoughtco.com/respiration-definition-and-types-4132422

https://study.com/academy/lesson/what-is-respiration-definition-process-equation.html

https://www.toppr.com/guides/biology/difference-between/photosynthesis-and-respiration/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/carbon-cycle#:~:text=1.2%20The%20carbon%20cycle,of%20CO2%20%5B7%5D.

Carbon Cycle