Photosynthesis and cellular respiration both include water in their summary reactions. Which statement correctly identifies the role of water in these two processes?

Question

Drinking Water / Wellhead Protection | City of Prior Lake, MN





a
Cellular respiration uses water and releases oxygen, while photosynthesis uses oxygen and releases water.
b
Photosynthesis and cellular respiration both use water to help release oxygen.
c
Cellular respiration uses oxygen and releases water, while photosynthesis uses water and releases oxygen.
d
Photosynthesis and cellular respiration both use oxygen and release water.

Answer 1

The correct statement that identifies the role of water in photosynthesis and cellular respiration is:

c: Cellular respiration uses oxygen and releases water, while photosynthesis uses water and releases oxygen.

In photosynthesis, water is used as a raw material to produce glucose and oxygen. In contrast, cellular respiration uses oxygen to help convert glucose into energy, and water is produced as a byproduct.