KS4 / GCSE · Biology

Bioenergetics

What is it

Bioenergetics covers photosynthesis (the word and symbol equation, rate-limiting factors, and its uses) and respiration (aerobic and anaerobic, in both plants and animals), and how exercise affects the body's need for energy.

Why it matters

Photosynthesis and respiration are the two chemical reactions that power almost all life on Earth, and questions comparing/contrasting the two reactions appear on every exam board's paper.

Exam tip

Memorise both word equations precisely and be ready to explain that aerobic respiration needs oxygen while anaerobic doesn't — mixing up the equations or their products is the single most common error on this topic.

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