A LevelBiologyOCRRevision Notes5. Communication, Homeostasis & EnergyPhotosynthesisPhotosynthesis & Respiration

Photosynthesis & Respiration (OCR A Level Biology): Revision Note

Exam code: H420

Lára Marie McIvor

Written by: Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewed by: Lucy Kirkham

Updated on

Photosynthesis & Respiration

  • Photosynthesis occurs in autotrophic organisms such as plants, algae and cyanobacteria

  • In the process of photosynthesis, light energy is trapped and used to convert simple inorganic compounds into complex organic compounds. Energy is stored within these organic compounds

  • Respiration occurs in all living organisms

  • Respiration is the process by which energy is released from organic molecules in living cells. The process can be aerobic (using oxygen) or anaerobic (without using oxygen)

  • There are several similarities and differences between photosynthesis and the two types of respiration

  • For example, the coenzyme NADP is used in photosynthesis whereas the coenzyme NAD is used in both aerobic and anaerobic respiration

Comparing Photosynthesis & Respiration Table

Comparison table of photosynthesis, aerobic respiration, and anaerobic respiration detailing occurrences, energy use, reactions, products, and requirements.

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Remember, energy is never created or destroyed; it is converted from one form to another!

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Author
Reviewer
Lára Marie McIvor

Author: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Content Creator

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

Lucy Kirkham

Reviewer: Lucy Kirkham

Expertise: Content Creator

Lucy has been a passionate Maths teacher for over 12 years, teaching maths across the UK and abroad helping to engage, interest and develop confidence in the subject at all levels.Working as a Head of Department and then Director of Maths, Lucy has advised schools and academy trusts in both Scotland and the East Midlands, where her role was to support and coach teachers to improve Maths teaching for all.