Photosynthesis vs Respiration: Complete NEET Guide

These two fundamental processes are among the most important topics in NEET Biology, appearing in 4-6 questions every year. Understanding their differences and similarities is crucial for scoring maximum marks.

Quick Comparison Table

| Aspect | Photosynthesis | Respiration |

|--------|----------------|-------------|

| **Purpose** | Food synthesis | Energy release |

| **Location** | Chloroplasts | Mitochondria |

| **Raw Materials** | CO₂ + H₂O | Glucose + O₂ |

| **Products** | Glucose + O₂ | CO₂ + H₂O + ATP |

| **Energy** | Light energy → Chemical | Chemical → ATP |

| **Occurrence** | Only in light | 24/7 process |

Detailed Process Analysis

Photosynthesis: The Food Factory

Overall Equation:

6CO₂ + 6H₂O + Light Energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂

Two Main Phases:

1. **Light Reactions (Photo-chemical phase)**

- Location: Thylakoid membranes

- Products: ATP, NADPH, O₂

- Key processes: Photolysis, electron transport

2. **Dark Reactions (Bio-chemical phase)**

- Location: Stroma

- Process: Calvin Cycle (C₃ cycle)

- Product: Glucose formation

Respiration: The Powerhouse

Overall Equation:

C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + 38 ATP

Three Main Phases:

1. **Glycolysis**

- Location: Cytoplasm

- Products: 2 Pyruvate + 2 ATP + 2 NADH

2. **Krebs Cycle**

- Location: Mitochondrial matrix

- Products: CO₂ + NADH + FADH₂ + ATP

3. **Electron Transport Chain**

- Location: Inner mitochondrial membrane

- Products: Maximum ATP (32-34 ATP)

NEET Exam Focus Points

High-Yield Topics:

Common Question Types:

1. Process comparison questions

2. Location-based questions

3. Product identification

4. Diagram-based questions

5. Assertion-reason questions

Memory Techniques

For Photosynthesis:

**Mnemonic**: "**P**lants **M**ake **F**ood **U**sing **L**ight"

For Respiration:

**Mnemonic**: "**G**lucose **B**reaks **R**eleasing **E**nergy"

Practice Questions

1. **Which process occurs in both photosynthesis and respiration?**

- a) Electron transport chain ✓

- b) Calvin cycle

- c) Photolysis

- d) Krebs cycle

2. **Maximum ATP is produced in:**

- a) Glycolysis

- b) Krebs cycle

- c) Electron transport chain ✓

- d) Fermentation

Study Tips

1. **Create comparison charts** for easy revision

2. **Practice diagram labeling** regularly

3. **Solve numerical problems** on ATP calculation

4. **Link with real-life examples** (plants, exercise)

Master these concepts with our expert faculty guidance and comprehensive study materials designed specifically for NEET success.