Both photosynthesis and cellular respiration are metabolic pathways (but occur in opposite directions). Both make use of an electron transport system located in a membrane to produce a proton gradient and ATP.
In Cellular respiration, glucose(C6H12O6) and oxygen(O2) are used to make carbondioxide(CO2) and water(H2O).
C6H12O6+O2 –> CO2+H2O
In Photosynthesis, carbondioxide and water are used to produce glucose(C6H12O6) and oxygen(O2).
CO2+H2O –> C6H12O6+O2
The overall equation for aerobic cellular respiration is the opposite of that for photosynthesis:
energy (ATP)+ 6 CO2 + 6 H2O <== C6H12O6 + 6 O2 (cellular respiration)
energy (light) + 6 CO2 + 6 H2O ==> C6H12O6 + 6 O2 (photosynthesis)
Cellular respiration occurs in the mitochondria, oxidation of glucose occurs, energy and carbon dioxide are released. It requires oxygen and occurs in both plants and animals, day or night.
Photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplast, reduction occurs, energy and oxygen are released while requiring carbon dioxide.
