Which of the following correctly describes the gases used and released during photosynthesis and cellular respiration in plants?

• A. Photosynthesis uses O\(_2\) and releases CO\(_2\); respiration uses CO\(_2\) and releases O\(_2\).
• B. Photosynthesis uses CO\(_2\) and releases O\(_2\); respiration uses O\(_2\) and releases CO\(_2\).
• C. Both photosynthesis and respiration use O\(_2\) and release CO\(_2\).
• D. Both photosynthesis and respiration use CO\(_2\) and release O\(_2\).

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, using carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\)) and water (H\(_2\)O), and releasing oxygen (O\(_2\)) as a byproduct. Cellular respiration is the process by which cells break down glucose to produce energy, using oxygen (O\(_2\)) and releasing carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\)) as a byproduct.
2. Step 2: Analyze the gases involved in photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, plants take in CO\(_2\) from the atmosphere and use it in the Calvin cycle to produce glucose. Oxygen (O\(_2\)) is released as a byproduct during the light-dependent reactions when water molecules are split.
3. Step 3: Examine the gases involved in cellular respiration. During cellular respiration, plants (and other organisms) use O\(_2\) to break down glucose in the mitochondria, producing energy in the form of ATP. CO\(_2\) is released as a byproduct during the Krebs cycle and electron transport chain.
4. Step 4: Compare the two processes. Photosynthesis uses CO\(_2\) and releases O\(_2\), while cellular respiration uses O\(_2\) and releases CO\(_2\). These processes are complementary and form the basis of the carbon and oxygen cycles in nature.
5. Step 5: Eliminate incorrect options based on the analysis. The correct description is: 'Photosynthesis uses CO\(_2\) and releases O\(_2\); respiration uses O\(_2\) and releases CO\(_2\).' This aligns with the roles of these gases in the respective processes.