An organism is sealed in a chamber. Scientists measure the amount of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the chamber. In 3–5 sentences, explain how they can use the volumes of these gases to determine if photosynthesis or cellular respiration is occurring in in the chamber. Please explain it coherently and simply, intended for 9th grade.

Answer 1

Scientists can determine if photosynthesis or cellular respiration is happening by measuring the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) and oxygen (O2) in the chamber. During photosynthesis, plants take in CO2 and release O2, so if the CO2 levels drop and O2 levels rise, it indicates photosynthesis is taking place. Conversely, in cellular respiration, organisms consume O2 and produce CO2, so if the O2 levels decrease and CO2 levels increase, this shows that cellular respiration is occurring. By tracking the changes in these gas levels, scientists can tell which process is dominant in the chamber.