Simulation 1: Carbon and Energy Cycle
Matter cycles through living systems; energy flows in one direction.
Photosynthesis · net (overall) equation6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O26CO2 + 12H2O + light → C6H12O6 + 6O2 + 6H2O12 H₂O are split in the light reactions (source of all O₂); 6 H₂O are re-formed in the Calvin cycle.
Cellular respiration · net (overall) equationC6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O + ATP~30–32 ATP + heat
Shared atoms: CO2 from respiration becomes glucose carbon in photosynthesis; O2 and glucose feed respiration. Photosynthesis and respiration use different pathways, enzymes, and organelles. Only their overall inputs and outputs mirror each other.