Final answer:
Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are interdependent because the outputs of one are the inputs of the other, forming a cycle that sustains life and regulates Earth's atmosphere. Photosynthesis uses sunlight to transform CO2 and water into glucose and oxygen, while cellular respiration converts glucose back into CO2 and water, releasing energy in the form of ATP.
Step-by-step explanation:
Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are interdependent processes that form the backbone of the carbon cycle. Photosynthesis, which occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, uses carbon dioxide (CO2), water (H2O), and sunlight to produce glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2). This glucose is then utilized as an energy source during cellular respiration, which converts it back into CO2 and H2O, along with energy stored in adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This ATP powers various cellular activities. Therefore, the final answer is that photosynthesis converts solar energy into chemical energy stored in glucose, while cellular respiration breaks down glucose to release stored energy for use by the cell.
The two processes are also coupled in their exchange of gases; the oxygen produced through photosynthesis is necessary for aerobic cellular respiration, and the CO2 produced during respiration is used in photosynthesis. This demonstrates a natural balance and cycle that helps maintain life and the atmospheric composition on Earth. It also highlights the integral role of ATP in both capturing and providing energy within biological systems.