Cellular Respiration
Cellular Respiration The process by which cells obtain energy from glucose by breaking down simple food molecules, such as sugar, and releasing the stored energy. C6H12O6 + 6O2 6CO2 + 6H2O + ENERGY
Two stages of Cellular Respiration In the cytoplasm, glucose is broken down into smaller molecules; oxygen is not involved and only a small amount of energy is released. Takes place in the mitochondria – there, molecules are broken down even further by chemical reactions. These chemical reactions require oxygen and release a great deal of energy. CO2 and H2O are also released – in most animals these two products leave the body by exhaling.