Courses
Courses for Kids
Free study material
Offline Centres
More
Store Icon
Store
seo-qna
SearchIcon
banner

Photosynthesis and respiration are central to which cycle?
A. The Nitrogen cycle
B. The carbon cycle
C. The phosphorus cycle
D. the Sulphur cycle

Answer
VerifiedVerified
282.3k+ views
Hint:
Before we proceed to the problem, it is important to know the definition of photosynthesis.
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use energy from the sun to convert carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen. This energy is used to create sugar, proteins, chlorophyll, vitamins, and other molecules that are essential for plant growth.

Complete step by step solution:
An important link exists between photosynthesis and cellular respiration. This bond allows life as we know it to continue. The reactants of one process are the products of the other.
The carbon cycle includes aerobic energy and photosynthesis. The carbon cycle refers to the processes by which carbon is regenerated in the biosphere. While cellular respiration emits carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, photosynthesis absorbs carbon dioxide.
Carbon dioxide from the atmosphere can be fixed by plants through stomata. In the presence of light and chlorophyll pigments, carbon-containing organic molecules like sugar, lipids, and proteins are synthesized from carbon dioxide. This produces plant biomass, which, when consumed by other species, recycles carbon from one level to another. Carbon eventually enters the geosphere and ultimately the atmosphere.
Therefore, photosynthesis and respiration are central to the carbon cycle.

Option ‘B’ is correct

Note:
The oxygen produced by photosynthesis is released into the atmosphere and used for cellular respiration. The oxygen breaks down the molecules and releases carbon dioxide. Carbon in the ecosystem is recycled from plants to animals and then back into the environment.