An organism is sealed in a chamber. Scientists measure the amount of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the chamber. In 3 sentences, explain how they can use the volumes of these gases to determine if photosynthesis or cellular respiration is occurring in in the chamber. (4 points)

Answer 1

Scientists can measure the volumes of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the chamber to assess the gas exchange processes occurring within it. During photosynthesis, the organism will consume carbon dioxide and release oxygen, leading to a decrease in CO2 levels and an increase in O2 levels. Conversely, during cellular respiration, the organism will consume oxygen and produce carbon dioxide, resulting in a decrease in O2 levels and an increase in CO2 levels; thus, the shifts in gas concentrations will indicate which process is dominant.