[Campbell Biology P.944] According to the text, which statement correctly differentiates gas... | Practice Question

According to the text, which statement correctly differentiates gas exchange in respiration from photosynthesis, and identifies a common adaptation for efficient gas exchange in both plants and animals?

  • A: Respiration involves O2 uptake and CO2 release, while photosynthesis involves CO2 uptake and O2 release; both processes are enhanced by highly convoluted surfaces.
  • B: Respiration occurs only in animals, while photosynthesis occurs only in plants, and both use simple, flat surfaces for gas exchange.
  • C: In both respiration and photosynthesis, CO2 is taken up and O2 is released, with efficiency increased by a high surface-area-to-volume ratio.
  • D: Gas exchange in plants primarily occurs via root hairs, whereas in animals it occurs through lungs, with no shared structural adaptations.

Explanation

The text states: 'Respiration by plants and animals requires taking up oxygen O2 and releasing carbon dioxide CO2 . In photosynthesis, net exchange occurs in the opposite direction: CO2 uptake and O2 release.' It also clearly mentions, 'In both plants and animals, highly convoluted surfaces that increase the area available for gas exchange have evolved, such as the spongy mesophyll of leaves left and the alveoli of lungs right .'