Question

A classroom has an aquarium. In the aquarium there is a goldfish and a water plant. The teacher explains that the cells of the plant capture energy from sunlight and the cells of both the plant and the goldfish used cellular respiration to transform food into energy Which organism in the example is conducting photosynthesis? grow.it. Describe how the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration work together to produce and transform energy. Explain why trees and plants are so important for human survival.

Answer 1

Ответ:

У класі є акваріум. В акваріумі є золота рибка і водна рослина. Це пояснює вчитель

клітини рослини захоплюють енергію від сонячного світла, а клітини як рослини, так і золотої рибки використовуються клітинними

дихання для перетворення їжі в енергію

Який організм у наведеному прикладі проводить фотосинтез?

рости.

Опишіть, як процеси фотосинтезу та клітинного дихання працюють разом, щоб виробляти і

трансформувати енергію. Поясніть, чому дерева та рослини так важливі для виживання людини

Answer 2

In the given example, the water plant is the organism conducting photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose (a form of energy) and oxygen. The chlorophyll present in the cells of the water plant captures energy from sunlight and uses it to fuel the photosynthesis process.

Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are complementary processes that work together to produce and transform energy within living organisms. Here's an overview of how they interact:

1. Photosynthesis: Plants, including the water plant in the aquarium, use photosynthesis to convert light energy from the sun into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This process takes place in the chloroplasts of plant cells. During photosynthesis, water is absorbed through the plant's roots, and carbon dioxide is taken in from the surrounding air. In the presence of sunlight and the chlorophyll pigment, these raw materials are used to produce glucose and oxygen. The released oxygen is usually released back into the atmosphere.

2. Cellular Respiration: Both plants and animals, including the goldfish in the aquarium, rely on cellular respiration to transform the stored energy in glucose into a more usable form called ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Cellular respiration occurs in the mitochondria of cells. During this process, glucose and oxygen are consumed, and carbon dioxide and water are produced as waste products. The ATP generated through cellular respiration is used for various cellular activities, allowing organisms to perform essential functions like growth, movement, and reproduction.

The processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration are interconnected through their products and reactants. The oxygen produced during photosynthesis is released into the environment and is essential for organisms, including animals and humans, to carry out cellular respiration. Conversely, carbon dioxide, a waste product of cellular respiration, is used by plants during photosynthesis. This mutual exchange of gases allows for a continuous cycle of energy transfer and sustains life on Earth.

Trees and plants play a crucial role in human survival for several reasons:

1. Oxygen Production: As mentioned earlier, trees and plants release oxygen during photosynthesis. Oxygen is vital for human respiration, and trees contribute significantly to the oxygen levels in the atmosphere. They help maintain a balanced composition of gases that supports the survival of aerobic organisms, including humans.

2. Carbon Dioxide Absorption: Trees and plants act as natural carbon sinks. Through photosynthesis, they absorb carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas responsible for global warming and climate change. By reducing the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, trees help mitigate the effects of climate change.

3. Ecosystem Support: Trees and plants form the foundation of terrestrial ecosystems. They provide habitats, food, and shelter for a wide range of organisms, including animals, insects, and microorganisms. The presence of diverse plant life ensures the sustainability and stability of ecosystems, which directly or indirectly benefit human populations.

4. Soil Conservation: Tree roots help hold soil together, preventing erosion and promoting soil stability. The root systems also contribute to nutrient cycling and water filtration, improving the overall health of ecosystems and supporting agriculture, which is essential for food production.

5. Aesthetics and Well-being: Trees and plants enhance the beauty of landscapes, provide shade, and create a soothing environment. Green spaces have been shown to improve mental health, reduce stress, and promote physical well-being.

In summary, trees and plants are vital for human survival due to their role in oxygen production, carbon dioxide absorption, ecosystem support, soil conservation, and the overall well-being of individuals and communities. Their contributions extend beyond their direct benefits, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of our planet's ecosystems and ensuring a sustainable future for all organisms, including humans.