Explore the Energy Cycle of Life
The Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration Model Set from Mega Molecules offers students a dynamic, hands-on way to understand the continuous cycle of energy and matter in living systems. Designed for middle and high school learners, this model set brings to life two of biology’s most essential processes—photosynthesis and cellular respiration—by allowing students to physically construct and deconstruct key molecules involved in these pathways.

Build Glucose at the Chloroplast
Students begin by assembling molecules of water (H₂O) and carbon dioxide (CO₂), the raw ingredients of photosynthesis. At a large-scale chloroplast model, these are rearranged into glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂), simulating the energy-storing reactions that occur in plant cells. This hands-on approach helps clarify how light energy is converted into chemical energy during photosynthesis, deepening understanding of molecular structure and transformation.

Follow Glucose to the Mitochondria
Once the glucose and oxygen molecules are formed, students shift focus to cellular respiration. By “transporting” these products to the mitochondria, they rebuild the original reactants—carbon dioxide and water—while conceptually generating ATP, the universal energy currency of cells. 

Interactive Learning, Real Understanding
The Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration Model Set encourages inquiry-based learning and accommodates a variety of learning styles. Whether in the classroom or at home, this set offers a powerful tool for teaching complex biological processes in a tangible, memorable format.

Modeling Activity for Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration