The Flow of Energy

Module Summary
The survival of all organisms depends on their ability to break down organic matter to harvest the energy and use it to construct cellular components. Organisms such as plants and algae are capable of using light from the Sun to synthesize complex organic molecules in the process of photosynthesis. In the process of cellular respiration, these molecules are then broken down and the released energy is used to power all cellular processes that are essential for life. The steps that occur in living organisms during the process of photosynthesis and respiration are affected by a number of different factors. For example, through osmosis and diffusion, important molecules are exchanged between living organisms and the environment. In cellular respiration, enzymes catalyze chemical reactions that provide all the energy needed by an organism.

Grade Levels
9-12                                                                                

Module Materials (view or download)
Yeast Fermentation
Chromatography
Osmosis and Diffusion – Sandwich Bags
Enzymes
Macromolecules in Food

Module Activity Overview	Estimated Class Time
Yeast Fermentation	1 (90 min) class
Chromatography	1 (45 min) class
Osmosis and Diffusion – Sandwich Bags	1 (90 min) class
Enzymes	1 (90 min) class
Macromolecules in Food	1 (90 min) class

 

Last updated: 3/9/2015