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.

Answer 1

Scientists can determine if photosynthesis or cellular respiration is occurring in the sealed chamber by measuring the relative volumes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and oxygen (O₂). During photosynthesis, plants absorb CO₂ and release O₂, leading to a decrease in CO₂ and an increase in O₂ levels over time. Conversely, cellular respiration involves consuming O₂ and producing CO₂, resulting in a decrease in O₂ and an increase in CO₂. By tracking these gas volume changes, scientists can infer which process is dominating in the chamber: an increase in O₂ alongside a decrease in CO₂ suggests photosynthesis, while a decrease in O₂ coupled with an increase in CO₂ indicates cellular respiration.