Final answer:
Photorespiration is a process in plants that uses oxygen instead of carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, while photosynthesis uses solar energy, carbon dioxide, and water to produce energy-storing carbohydrates and oxygen. Oxygen is a byproduct of photosynthesis and is released into the environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Photorespiration:
Photorespiration is a process in plants where the enzyme Rubisco uses oxygen instead of carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, leading to the release of carbon dioxide and the consumption of ATP and NADPH. It is considered an inefficient process that reduces the efficiency of photosynthesis, especially in hot and dry conditions.
Photosynthesis:
Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert solar energy, carbon dioxide, and water into energy-storing carbohydrates (sugar) and oxygen. It takes place in two stages: the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle. The light-dependent reactions occur in the thylakoid membrane of chloroplasts and produce ATP and NADPH, while the Calvin cycle occurs in the stroma and uses these energy-rich molecules to fix carbon dioxide and produce glucose.
Oxygen:
Oxygen is a byproduct of photosynthesis. During the light-dependent reactions, solar energy is used to split water molecules, releasing oxygen as a waste product and producing ATP and NADPH. This oxygen is then released into the environment, contributing to the oxygen levels in the Earth's atmosphere.