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

Answer 1

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

a. Cellular respiration uses oxygen and releases water, while photosynthesis uses water and releases oxygen.

In photosynthesis, water is a reactant, and it is split to release oxygen as a byproduct. In cellular respiration, oxygen is used to help produce energy, and water is produced as a byproduct.