To understand the relationship between photosynthesis and respiration, let’s break down what each process entails.
A. Photosynthesis occurs only in plants and respiration occurs only in animals: This statement is misleading. While it is true that photosynthesis primarily occurs in plants, algae, and some bacteria, respiration occurs in almost all living organisms, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms. Thus, this option doesn’t accurately reflect the relationships between these processes.
B. Respiration is anabolic and photosynthesis is catabolic: This statement is incorrect as well. Anabolism refers to processes that build up molecules, while catabolism refers to breaking down molecules. In fact, photosynthesis is an anabolic process as it builds glucose from carbon dioxide and water using sunlight, whereas respiration is a catabolic process that breaks down glucose to release energy.
C. This option is incomplete, but if it were to state that photosynthesis and respiration are interconnected, that would be more accurate. Photosynthesis produces glucose and oxygen, which are then used in respiration to produce energy. The products of one process are the reactants of the other, forming a cycle critical for life on Earth.
In summary, neither option A nor B accurately describes the relationship between photosynthesis and respiration. Both processes are essential and interconnected, sustaining life in a symbiotic relationship.