Question

Explain why respiration is considered an exothermic reaction. Give the chemical equation for this reaction.

Hint:

Respiration is exothermic because it releases energy in the form of ATP, which is used for cell functions.

Answer 1

Respiration, an exothermic process, generates energy. In cellular respiration, glucose is broken down with oxygen, yielding carbon dioxide, water, and energy. This energy, in the form of ATP, fuels cellular activities like growth, repair, and maintenance.The chemical equation for aerobic respiration, occurring with oxygen, is:\[\text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6 (aq) + 6\text{O}_2 (g) \rightarrow 6\text{CO}_2 (g) + 6\text{H}_2\text{O} (l) + \text{Energy}\]This equation illustrates that glucose and oxygen react to form carbon dioxide, water, and energy.Therefore, respiration is exothermic due to the energy release during the reaction.