In this assignment, you will trace the path of a labeled carbon atom through the biological processes of photosynthesis and respiration. The atom will start its journey inside a carbon dioxide molecule and it will end in the air inside a new carbon dioxide molecule. Your mission is to use your knowledge of photosynthesis and respiration to explain what happens to the carbon atom in these processes.

Question

anonymous · Answer

I just don't understand what i am suppost to do

anonymous · Answer

In photosynthesis the carbon dioxide and water are combined to make glucose and oxygen
6CO2+6H2O→C6H12O6+6O2

During respiration the opposite happens, the glucose is burnt(burning involves oxygen) to make carbon dioxide and water 
C6H12O6+6O2→6CO2+6H2O

so this is what happens to the carbon (carbon dioxide)

anonymous · Answer

Do you understand now?

anonymous · Answer

somewhat, how does it get from the plant, like the oxygen goes into the atmosphere, but how does the carbon get back into carbon dioxide from respiration?

anonymous · Answer

During photosynthesis, the plants make glucose ( C6H12O6 ) that is stored in the cells of the plants, and during respiration, the plants use this glucose to get energy by using the process of respiration. So the carbon is a part of the glucose molecule which is already stored in the cell... is it still hard to understand?

anonymous · Answer

no, i think i got it, thanks =D

anonymous · Answer

YW!! :D