Gas Used by Plants in Respiration During Photosynthesis

Plants, just like other living organisms, undergo respiration to produce energy for their metabolic processes. However, during photosynthesis, plants also require a specific gas for respiration. The gas used by plants in respiration during photosynthesis is oxygen (O2).

Explanation:

During photosynthesis, plants utilize energy from sunlight, along with carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O), to synthesize glucose and release oxygen as a byproduct. This process occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, primarily in the leaves.

Photosynthesis Equation:
6CO2 + 6H2O + sunlight → C6H12O6 + 6O2

While oxygen is released as a byproduct of photosynthesis, it is also required by plants for their cellular respiration. Respiration is the process through which plants break down glucose to release energy for various cellular activities, such as growth, reproduction, and maintenance of cellular structures.

Cellular Respiration Equation:
C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O + energy

Key Points:

1. Plants use oxygen obtained from the surrounding environment for respiration during photosynthesis.
2. Oxygen is crucial for the breakdown of glucose molecules, which releases energy for plant metabolism.
3. During respiration, plants take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide and water vapor.
4. The oxygen used in respiration is a byproduct of photosynthesis, resulting in a symbiotic relationship between the two processes.
5. The oxygen produced during photosynthesis is released into the atmosphere, where it becomes available for plant respiration and other organisms.
6. Respiration occurs in the mitochondria of plant cells, where glucose molecules are broken down to release energy.
7. Oxygen serves as the final electron acceptor in the respiratory electron transport chain, facilitating the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) for energy storage and utilization.

Therefore, oxygen plays a vital role in both photosynthesis and respiration in plants. It is produced during photosynthesis and subsequently used by plants for their cellular respiration, ensuring the continuous energy supply necessary for their survival and growth.

Carbon dioxide