Which of the following best describes the relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respiration?

• A. Photosynthesis and cellular respiration both occur only in animal cells.
• B. Both processes consume oxygen and produce carbon dioxide.
• C. Photosynthesis stores energy in glucose molecules, while cellular respiration releases that energy for cellular use.
• D. Cellular respiration produces glucose, which is then broken down by photosynthesis.

Answer: (C)

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, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose molecules. Cellular respiration, on the other hand, is the process by which cells break down glucose to release energy in the form of ATP.
2. Step 2: Analyze the role of oxygen and carbon dioxide in both processes. Photosynthesis consumes carbon dioxide and water, producing glucose and oxygen as byproducts. Cellular respiration consumes glucose and oxygen, producing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.
3. Step 3: Compare the energy dynamics of the two processes. Photosynthesis stores energy by synthesizing glucose molecules, while cellular respiration releases the stored energy in glucose for cellular activities.
4. Step 4: Address the incorrect statements in the problem. Photosynthesis does not occur in animal cells, and cellular respiration does not produce glucose. Instead, cellular respiration breaks down glucose produced by photosynthesis.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct description of the relationship is: Photosynthesis stores energy in glucose molecules, while cellular respiration releases that energy for cellular use.