Summary
The process of releasing energy from glucose to make ATP, using oxygen in the aerobic form.
In depth
Stages: glycolysis (cytoplasm), link reaction, Krebs cycle (mitochondrial matrix) and oxidative phosphorylation (inner membrane). Overall: C6H12O6 + 6O2 gives 6CO2 + 6H2O + about 30 ATP. About 40 percent of the energy is captured; the rest is heat.
Glucose oxidation is stepwise so energy is released in manageable packages. Oxygen is needed only at the final stage. Heat is produced from the inefficiency.
Example: the respiration equation summarises about thirty reactions.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cellular Respiration?
The process of releasing energy from glucose to make ATP, using oxygen in the aerobic form.
Which area of biology covers Cellular Respiration, and how advanced is it?
Cellular Respiration is one of the 53 topics in Metabolism & Bioenergetics. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Respiratory Equation, Link Reaction, Oxidative Phosphorylation.
Can you give an example of Cellular Respiration?
Warm-bloodedness depends on heat from respiration.
What should I learn before Cellular Respiration?
Cellular Respiration is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Metabolism & Bioenergetics that pair well with it include Metabolism, Anabolism and Catabolism, ATP.
What topics are related to Cellular Respiration?
The closest topics to Cellular Respiration are Respiratory Equation, Link Reaction, Oxidative Phosphorylation, Photosynthesis vs Respiration. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Cellular Respiration?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Cellular Respiration. To practise the whole of Metabolism & Bioenergetics, use the Metabolism & Bioenergetics quiz.
How is Cellular Respiration different from Respiratory Equation?
Cellular Respiration: The process of releasing energy from glucose to make ATP, using oxygen in the aerobic form. Respiratory Equation: Glucose plus oxygen yields carbon dioxide, water and energy released as ATP and heat. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Cellular Respiration step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Respiratory Equation and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Metabolism & Bioenergetics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.