Biochemistry
Respiration (Cellular)
The metabolic process by which cells break down glucose and other organic molecules to release energy stored in their chemical bonds, producing ATP, carbon dioxide, and water.
Biological Context
Cellular respiration is essentially the reverse of photosynthesis, releasing the energy that photosynthesis captured. It occurs in all living cells, not just animals. Aerobic respiration requires oxygen; anaerobic respiration (fermentation) does not but produces less ATP.