Question

which statement best describes the relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respiration?

• photosynthesis removes carbon from the atmosphere, and cellular respiration releases carbon back into the atmosphere.
• photosynthesis is part of the carbon cycle, and cellular respiration is not.
• photosynthesis releases carbon into the atmosphere, and cellular respiration removes carbon from the atmosphere.
• only plants perform photosynthesis, and only animals perform cellular respiration.

Explanation:

Analyze photosynthesis carbon flow

Photosynthesis uses light energy to convert carbon dioxide (\(\text{CO}_2\)) from the atmosphere into organic compounds like glucose. This process removes gaseous carbon from the atmosphere.

Analyze cellular respiration carbon flow

Cellular respiration breaks down organic molecules to release energy, producing carbon dioxide (\(\text{CO}_2\)) as a byproduct. This process releases carbon back into the atmosphere.

Evaluate the given statements

• Statement 1: "Photosynthesis removes carbon from the atmosphere, and cellular respiration releases carbon back into the atmosphere." This correctly describes the complementary roles of both processes in cycling CHNOPS elements like carbon.
• Statement 2: "Photosynthesis is part of the carbon cycle, and cellular respiration is not." This is incorrect because both processes are vital components of the carbon cycle.
• Statement 3: "Photosynthesis releases carbon into the atmosphere, and cellular respiration removes carbon from the atmosphere." This is the exact opposite of what occurs.
• Statement 4: "Only plants perform photosynthesis, and only animals perform cellular respiration." This is incorrect because plants, fungi, and many other organisms also perform cellular respiration.

Answer:

• Photosynthesis removes carbon from the atmosphere, and cellular respiration releases carbon back into the atmosphere. (Correct answer)
• Photosynthesis is part of the carbon cycle, and cellular respiration is not.
• Photosynthesis releases carbon into the atmosphere, and cellular respiration removes carbon from the atmosphere.
• Only plants perform photosynthesis, and only animals perform cellular respiration.