What is meant by aerobic respiration? Write the word equation for it.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Answer:
Aerobic respiration is the process by which cells break down glucose in the presence of oxygen to produce energy.
Word equation for aerobic respiration:
Glucose + Oxygen → Carbon dioxide + Water + Energy
Explanation
Aerobic respiration is a biological process that takes place in the cells of most plants, animals, and many microorganisms. It allows organisms to convert the chemical energy stored in glucose into a usable form of energy called adenosine triphosphate, or ATP. This process requires oxygen, which is why it is referred to as “aerobic” — a term that means “with air” or “with oxygen.”
The overall word equation for aerobic respiration is:
Glucose + Oxygen → Carbon dioxide + Water + Energy
Glucose, which is a simple sugar, is the fuel used by cells. Oxygen is needed for the chemical reactions that break down glucose molecules. This breakdown happens inside tiny cell structures called mitochondria. As the glucose is broken down, carbon atoms from the glucose combine with oxygen to form carbon dioxide, which is then released from the body through breathing. At the same time, hydrogen atoms from the glucose molecules combine with oxygen to produce water.
The energy released from this process is stored in ATP molecules. Cells then use this energy to perform essential tasks such as muscle contraction, nerve signal transmission, protein synthesis, and cell division. The remaining waste products — carbon dioxide and water — are removed from the body through exhalation, urination, and perspiration.
This process is much more efficient than anaerobic respiration because it produces more ATP per glucose molecule. While anaerobic respiration yields only 2 ATP molecules per glucose, aerobic respiration typically produces around 36 to 38 ATP molecules.
In summary, aerobic respiration is vital for life as it supplies the energy that living organisms need for growth, movement, and other daily functions.
