Question

If a plant is releasing carbon dioxide and taking in oxygen during the day, does it mean that there is no photosynthesis occurring? Justify your answer.

Answer 1

Respiration and photosynthesis:

1. Plants exchange gases throughout the day. In the process of respiration, they release carbon dioxide and intake oxygen.
2. In the case of photosynthesis, they release carbon dioxide and this process is dependent upon respiration because in photosynthesis the plant requires carbon dioxide which is obtained from respiration.
3. Hence we can say that respiration and photosynthesis can occur simultaneously.
4. Respiration is independent of photosynthesis.