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The mitochondrion and chloroplast work together through a series of energy transformations to enable green plants to thrive

Biology

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The mitochondrion and chloroplast work together through a series of energy transformations to enable green plants to thrive.

The reaction C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂0 provides an overall summary of the exergonic release of some 2,870 kJ of energy per mole of glucose oxidised, which, in turn, yields approximately 30 ATP per mole of glucose oxidised (where ATP is the universal energy currency).

a)    Given Cellular Respiration is not 100% efficient and considering the first Law of Thermodynamics: apart from ATP synthesis, explain how else energy is released when glucose is oxidised.                   [2 marks]

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b)    Considering a plant cell, discuss this statement: "The mitochondrion is responsible for most but not all the ATP produced for cellular work in this cell."

In your answer, include a very brief description of all the processes that produce this ATP in the cell, and where these processes occur. [5 marks]

Your answer:

 

 

 

c)     Discuss this statement: "Photorespiration is considered by many to be a wasteful process and therefore an evolutionary oversight."

In your answer, state what is meant by photorespiration and describe the biological adaptation (mechanism) CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) plants have evolved that concentrates carbon and thus enables these plants to minimise photorespiration.