Question

Notice that the by-products of one process are used as the reactants for the other process. This is referred to as the ____________ of molecules.

Answer 1

cycling of molecules

Explanation:

In a cell, the flux of energy is associated to the cycling of molecules among subcellular compartments. In coupled reactions, the cycling of molecules between mitochondria and chloroplasts is required to produce the flow of energy and to sustain the life of the Earth. Chloroplasts produce chemical energy by using solar energy to convert water and carbon dioxide (CO2) into oxygen (O2) and high energy carbohydrates (i.e., sugars and starches). Subsequently, in the mitochondria, the process of cellular respiration enables to convert the carbohydrates into high energy molecules (ATP), releasing water and CO2.