Question

Look at figure 9-3. Which process or processes would you expect the organisms in the test tubes to carry out - cellular respiration, photosynthesis, or both? When would you expect each process to occur?

Answer 1

Organisms in the test tubes would carry out photosynthesis in the presence of light and cellular respiration continuously. These processes are interconnected, with photosynthesis providing materials needed for respiration and vice versa.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the description of Figure 9-3, we can determine that the organisms in the test tubes would be expected to carry out both photosynthesis and cellular respiration. However, the timing of each process would depend on the conditions within and surrounding the test tubes, such as the presence of light, which is necessary for photosynthesis.

Photosynthesis would occur when the organisms are exposed to light, as this process requires light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Photosynthesis is carried out by photoautotrophs like plants, algae, and some bacteria, which contain chlorophyll or similar pigments to capture light energy.

Cellular Respiration would occur continuously, as this process is used by all living organisms to convert oxygen and glucose into energy (ATP), carbon dioxide, and water. It can happen both in the presence of oxygen (aerobic respiration) or in its absence (anaerobic respiration or fermentation).

Since plants are able to perform both processes, they utilize the glucose and oxygen produced during photosynthesis to fuel cellular respiration, particularly in the absence of light (e.g., during the night).