Cells: Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration - Gumdrop Chemical Equations

Photosynthesis

• Plants use light energy (for example sunlight) to combine carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) to make simple sugars (C6H12O6).  
• Plant cells also release oxygen gas (O2).  
• Once the sugars are formed, they are either used by the plant or stored in the vacuoles.  
• Photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplasts.

Respiration

 

• All organisms, including plants and animals, break down simple sugars (C6H12O6) into carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) and release energy.  
• The cell uses the energy to build, repair, and reproduce cells.  
• Respiration occurs in the mitochondria of cells.