Photosynthesis and aerobic respiration are both important processes for the generation of energy in organisms. However, the two processes are distinct. Explain the differences and similarities between the two processes.

Concepts to Consider: Overall, aerobic respiration can be considered the opposite of photosynthesis. The reactants of respiration are the products of photosynthesis. In addition, respiration is an exergonic process, whereas photosynthesis is endergonic and uses the energy of the sun. The two processes also occur in different areas of the cell. On the other hand, photosynthesis and aerobic respiration both utilize electron transport chains, where electrons are transferred from one acceptor to another as a means of generating a proton gradient that is used to drive the chemiosmotic synthesis of ATP.