- Photosynthesis in green plants uses sunlight energy, carbon dioxide (6 CO₂), and water (6 H₂O) to produce glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (6 O₂).
- The glucose produced is an energy-rich molecule that fuels cellular respiration within the plant's cells.
- Cellular respiration in plant cells (occurring in mitochondria) breaks down glucose using oxygen to generate ATP, which powers plant growth and reproduction.
- Animals consume plants (or other animals that ate plants) to obtain this glucose for their own cellular respiration.
- During cellular respiration in animal cells (also in mitochondria), glucose and oxygen are used to produce ATP, releasing carbon dioxide and water as waste products.
- The carbon dioxide and water released by animals (and plants during respiration) are recycled back into the environment, becoming inputs for photosynthesis in plants, thus completing the energy cycle.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of photosynthesis diagram worksheet answer key.
