Cellular respiration is a vital process that occurs in the cells of organisms to convert biochemical energy from nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and then release waste products. The process can be summarized by the following chemical equation:
C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O + Energy (ATP)
Reactants:
- Glucose (C6H12O6)
- Oxygen (O2)
Products:
- Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
- Water (H2O)
- Energy (ATP)
In this process, glucose and oxygen are the reactants that undergo a series of reactions to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy in the form of ATP. This energy is essential for various cellular activities, including growth, repair, and maintenance of the cell.