Question

Cells have a variety of organelles, each with a specific function. The organelles must work together in order for the cell to survive.

Describe the function of a chloroplast and mitochondria.
Identify the chemical reaction that occurs in both organelles, explaining what happens in these reactions.
Describe how the chloroplast and mitochondria work together to help a plant cell survive.

Answer 1

The process of photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplast. Photosynthesis can be described as a process in which plants convert water and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen. Oxygen is the by-product of the reaction. The energy for this reaction is taken by the chloroplast by trapping light energy of the Sun.

The reaction for photosynthesis can be written as:

6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2

The process of cellular respiration takes place in the mitochondria. Respiration can be described as a process in which glucose and oxygen get converted into carbon dioxide and water. Energy is released by this process which is used for many cellular activities. Hence, mitochondria is known as the powerhouse of a cell.

The reaction of cellular respiration can be summed up as:

C 6 H 12 O 6 + 6 O 2 --> 6 CO 2 + 6 H 2 O + ATP

Both, these processes provide energy for the working of cells.