The relationship between photosynthesis and respiration in terms of the reactants

    Briefly describe the relationship between photosynthesis and respiration in terms of the reactants and products of each chemical reaction. Hypothesize why virtually every theory of mass extinctions on the planet such as the asteroid impact theory involve decreased sunlight as the source. In your explanation, briefly explain the asteroid impact theory. Give some thought to your study in chapter 1 of the levels of organization and how the elimination of plants would affect virtually every ecosystem on the planet, our biosphere.

Sample Solution

    Photosynthesis and respiration are two complementary biochemical processes that occur in all living organisms. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to produce oxygen and glucose. Respiration is the process by which all living organisms use oxygen to break down glucose and produce energy.

Full Answer Section

     

The reactants and products of photosynthesis and respiration are as follows:

Photosynthesis:

  • Reactants: sunlight, water, carbon dioxide
  • Products: oxygen, glucose

Respiration:

  • Reactants: oxygen, glucose
  • Products: water, carbon dioxide, energy

Relationship between photosynthesis and respiration

Photosynthesis and respiration are closely related processes. The oxygen produced by photosynthesis is used by all living organisms for respiration. The glucose produced by photosynthesis is used by plants for energy and is also eaten by other organisms, which then use it for energy through respiration.

Asteroid impact theory

The asteroid impact theory is a scientific theory that proposes that an asteroid impact caused the Cretaceous–Paleogene extinction event, which killed off the dinosaurs and many other species. The theory is based on the evidence of a large impact crater that was discovered in the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico.

The asteroid impact theory is supported by a number of other lines of evidence, including:

  • The presence of a layer of iridium-rich dust in the geological record that dates back to the time of the extinction event. Iridium is a rare element on Earth, but it is common in asteroids.
  • The presence of shocked quartz in the geological record that dates back to the time of the extinction event. Shocked quartz is a form of quartz that is created when rocks are subjected to extreme pressure and heat.
  • The presence of mass extinctions at other times in the geological record that are also associated with impact craters.

How the elimination of plants would affect virtually every ecosystem on the planet, our biosphere

Plants are the foundation of all ecosystems. They provide food and oxygen for all other living organisms. If plants were eliminated, virtually every other living organism on Earth would also die.

Plants play a number of important roles in ecosystems, including:

  • Providing food for other organisms
  • Producing oxygen
  • Filtering water
  • Preventing soil erosion
  • Regulating the climate

The elimination of plants would have a devastating impact on all ecosystems on the planet. It would lead to the extinction of many species, including humans.

Conclusion

Photosynthesis and respiration are two complementary biochemical processes that are essential for life on Earth. The asteroid impact theory is a scientific theory that proposes that an asteroid impact caused the Cretaceous–Paleogene extinction event, which killed off the dinosaurs and many other species. The elimination of plants would have a devastating impact on all ecosystems on the planet.

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