In Year 7 Biology, we learn about the cool differences between plant and animal cells, especially how they use energy. Let’s jump right in!

Energy Production

1. Photosynthesis in Plant Cells:

   • Plant cells have a special part called chloroplasts. These contain a green pigment called chlorophyll. This allows plants to catch sunlight and change it into energy through a process known as photosynthesis.
   • It can be summed up like this: $\text{Carbon Dioxide} + \text{Water} + \text{Sunlight} \rightarrow \text{Glucose} + \text{Oxygen}$
   • This means plants use sunlight to turn carbon dioxide and water into glucose, which is a type of sugar that gives them energy.

2. Cellular Respiration in Both Cells:

   • Both plant and animal cells perform cellular respiration. This is how they get energy from glucose. During this process, glucose is broken down with oxygen, creating energy, carbon dioxide, and water.
   • The basic equation for cellular respiration is: $\text{Glucose} + \text{Oxygen} \rightarrow \text{Carbon Dioxide} + \text{Water} + \text{Energy (ATP)}$
   • Here, ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is what we call the energy currency of the cell.

Energy Usage

• Plant Cells: They mainly use the energy they make from photosynthesis during the day. At night, they use the stored glucose for energy.
• Animal Cells: Since animals don’t have chloroplasts, they need to eat food to get glucose. They eat plants or other animals and break down these foods to get energy.

Summary

In short, both plant and animal cells need energy but get it in different ways. Plants use sunlight through photosynthesis, while animals get energy by eating. This difference shows how each type of cell fits into its environment and needs, helping to keep our ecosystem balanced!