Last Updated: 6 May 2026Verified for JEE 2027
BiologyNEET
Difference Between Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration
Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are complementary metabolic processes. Photosynthesis converts light energy to chemical energy, while respiration releases stored chemical energy.
Photosynthesis vs Cellular Respiration — Comparison Table
| Aspect | Photosynthesis | Cellular Respiration |
|---|---|---|
| Process | Builds glucose (anabolic) | Breaks down glucose (catabolic) |
| Equation | 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ | C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O |
| Energy | Absorbs light energy | Releases chemical energy (ATP) |
| Location | Chloroplasts | Mitochondria |
| Occurs in | Plants, algae, some bacteria | All living organisms |
| Requirement | Light, CO₂, H₂O | Glucose, O₂ (aerobic) |
| Products | Glucose, O₂ | CO₂, H₂O, ATP |
Key Points to Remember
Photosynthesis occurs in two stages: Light reactions and Calvin cycle
Respiration occurs in three stages: Glycolysis, Krebs cycle, ETC
Net ATP from one glucose molecule: ~36-38 ATP
Both processes involve electron transport chains
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