Where does respiration take place in relation to photosynthesis?

Respiration occurs in all living organisms as a crucial process for energy production, involving the breakdown of glucose into carbon dioxide and water while releasing energy. This process is essential for cellular functions and takes place continuously, both day and night.

In plants, photosynthesis typically occurs during the day when sunlight is available, allowing chlorophyll to capture light energy and convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. However, respiration does not rely on light; instead, it can happen at any time. During the day, while photosynthesis is actively occurring, plants also perform respiration to utilize the energy produced. At night, when photosynthesis ceases due to the lack of sunlight, respiration continues as the plant still requires energy for growth and maintenance.

The continuous nature of respiration—both in light and darkness—illustrates the interconnectedness of these two processes in plant biology, confirming that respiration takes place both during the day and at night.