Photosynthesis is the production of carbon compounds such as glucose using light energy. Oxygen is produced as a waste product which then diffuses out of the cell. Plants use smaller molecules such as carbon dioxide and water to build larger molecules like glucose. Hence, photosynthesis is an anabolic reaction. An anabolic reaction requires energy to build larger molecules. Photosynthesis takes in energy so is known as an endothermic reaction.
Cell respiration (Choices B and D) is the production of ATP, carbon dioxide and water using glucose and oxygen. Glucose is broken down to form smaller molecules so it is categorized as a catabolic reaction. A catabolic reaction releases energy when larger molecules are broken down to form smaller molecules. Reactions that release energy are known as exothermic reactions.
