To answer the question, "Energy in the case of higher plants and animals is obtained by," we can break down the process into several key steps:
### Step-by-Step Solution:
1. **Understanding Energy Requirement**:
- All living cells require energy to perform various activities such as growth, reproduction, and maintenance of cellular functions.
2. **Sources of Energy**:
- The primary source of energy for cells is the breakdown of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are organic compounds made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, and they are essential for energy production.
3. **Methods of Breakdown**:
- The breakdown of carbohydrates can occur in two ways:
- **Aerobic Respiration**: This process requires oxygen and occurs in the mitochondria of cells. It involves the complete oxidation of glucose to produce carbon dioxide, water, and a significant amount of energy (ATP).
- **Anaerobic Respiration**: This process occurs without oxygen and results in the partial breakdown of glucose, producing less energy compared to aerobic respiration. It can lead to byproducts like lactic acid in animals or ethanol in yeast.
4. **Role of Digestion**:
- In both higher plants and animals, the digestion of food is crucial. During digestion, complex carbohydrates are broken down into simpler sugars, primarily glucose. This glucose is then utilized by the cells to produce energy.
5. **Photosynthesis in Plants**:
- In plants, energy is also obtained through photosynthesis, where sunlight is used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This glucose can then be used for energy through cellular respiration.
6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the energy in higher plants and animals is primarily obtained through the digestion of food, where carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is then utilized for energy production via aerobic or anaerobic respiration.
### Final Answer:
Energy in the case of higher plants and animals is obtained by the digestion of food, where carbohydrates are broken down into glucose.
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