What is the Difference Between Photosynthesis and Photorespiration?

Photosynthesis and photorespiration are two processes that occur in plants, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics.

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize nutrients from carbon dioxide and water. It occurs in plants and involves the intake of sunlight, oxygen, and water to release oxygen and energy in the form of sugar. Photosynthesis is an essential process for plant growth and is driven by the enzyme RuBisCO, which reacts with carbon dioxide.

Photorespiration, on the other hand, is a wasteful process that competes with the Calvin cycle. It begins when RuBisCO acts on oxygen instead of carbon dioxide. Photorespiration reduces the efficiency of photosynthesis and is more prevalent in higher plants. The process involves the RuBisCO enzyme reacting with oxygen, leading to the release of some carbon dioxide.

In summary, the main differences between photosynthesis and photorespiration are:

• Photosynthesis is a essential process for plant growth, while photorespiration is a wasteful side reaction that reduces the efficiency of photosynthesis.
• Photosynthesis requires sunlight, oxygen, and water to release oxygen and energy in the form of sugar, whereas photorespiration involves the intake of oxygen with the release of some carbon dioxide.
• Photosynthesis is driven by the RuBisCO enzyme reacting with carbon dioxide, while photorespiration occurs when the RuBisCO enzyme reacts with oxygen.

Comparative Table: Photosynthesis vs Photorespiration

Here is a table comparing the differences between photosynthesis and photorespiration:

Photosynthesis is the primary process by which green plants, algae, and cyanobacteria generate carbohydrates and oxygen from carbon dioxide and water using the energy from sunlight. In contrast, photorespiration is a side reaction of the Calvin cycle, where the RuBisCO enzyme accidentally binds oxygen instead of carbon dioxide, wasting some of the fixed carbon and energy.