Question

Explain the interrelationship of Cellular Respiration and Photosynthesis in regards to energy flow. Discuss the ramifications of oxygen depletion from the environment in regards to these energy systems.

Answer 1

Question: Explain the interrelationship of Cellular Respiration and Photosynthesis in regards to energy flow. Discuss the ramifications of oxygen depletion from the environment in regards to these energy systems.

Answer:

Photosynthesis produces glucose and oxygen in the presence of energy derived from the sunlight along with water and carbon dioxide. Moreover, cellular respiration breaks down glucose in the presence of oxygen (produced during photosynthesis) to release energy besides carbon dioxide and water.

Photosynthesis derives the reactants from respiration, and on the other hand respiration needs the products of photosynthesis. Hence both photosynthesis and cellular respiration are interdependent.

Main reasons for oxygen depletion in the environment can be both natural or due to human activity. Natural causes include flooding that decreases oxygen availability to roots. Moreover, global warming is because of human activity that can lead to the disruption of the delicate balance between Cellular Respiration and Photosynthesis.

In plants, as oxygen is involved in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, depletion of oxygen from the environment reduces ATP production and energy supply thus affecting the photosynthesis.