Question

The reaction below represents what type of reaction? \(\mathrm{C}_{6} \mathrm{H}_{12} \mathrm{O}_{6}+6 \mathrm{O}_{2} \rightarrow 6 \mathrm{CO}_{2}+6 \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}+\) energy (A) Aerobic respiration (B) Anaerobic respiration (C) Glycolysis (D) Fermentation (E) Photosynthesis

Short answer

The reaction represents Aerobic respiration (choice A).

Step-by-step solution

Analyze the Reaction

First, let's examine the chemical equation. It shows that glucose (C6H12O6) reacts with oxygen (O2) to produce carbon dioxide (CO2), water (H2O), and energy. This is a combustion process where glucose is oxidized.

Identify the Process

Next, match this reaction with one of the possible answers. Both aerobic respiration and anaerobic respiration involve the breakdown of glucose. However, the clear presence of oxygen (O2) in the reaction indicates that this process happens in the presence of oxygen.

Finalize the Answer

Therefore, this is aerobic respiration (answer A). In this process, glucose is broken down in the presence of oxygen to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy.

Key concepts

Aerobic Respiration

Aerobic respiration is a process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy, carbon dioxide, and water. This is a vital process for many living organisms because it provides the energy we need for all our activities. Typically, this process happens in the mitochondria, known as the powerhouse of the cell.

• It requires oxygen, hence the name 'aerobic'.
• It efficiently breaks down glucose to yield high amounts of energy in the form of ATP.
• Aerobic respiration supports sustained life activities like movement, growth, and reproduction.

These elements underscore why aerobic respiration is considered the ultimate form of energy production in organisms that need a steady supply of energy.

Chemical Equation Analysis

Analyzing the chemical equation for aerobic respiration offers insights into the intricacies of this biochemical reaction. The chemical formula depicted is \[ \mathrm{C}_{6} \mathrm{H}_{12} \mathrm{O}_{6}+6 \mathrm{O}_{2} \rightarrow 6 \mathrm{CO}_{2}+6 \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}+\text{energy} \]This reflects the reaction where glucose (\( \mathrm{C}_{6} \mathrm{H}_{12} \mathrm{O}_{6} \)) is broken down in the presence of oxygen (\( \mathrm{O}_{2} \)) into carbon dioxide (\( \mathrm{CO}_{2} \)), water (\( \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O} \)), and energy.

• This equation is balanced, meaning the number of each type of atom is the same on both sides.
• The presence of oxygen in the reactants indicates a reliance on aerobic respiration.
• The products, carbon dioxide and water, are substances that are usually released by the organism as waste.

Understanding this equation helps you visualize the transformation of molecules during cellular respiration.

Oxidation of Glucose

The oxidation of glucose is a critical component of aerobic respiration. During this process, glucose is systematically broken down and electrons are transferred through a series of reactions. The ultimate goal of oxidation is to extract energy from glucose efficiently.

• In the presence of oxygen, glucose undergoes complete oxidation, releasing a significant amount of energy.
• This energy is often stored in the form of ATP, which cells can use for various functions.
• Each glucose molecule can produce up to 36-38 molecules of ATP in aerobic conditions.

Through oxidation, glucose serves as a crucial fuel for energy production in aerobic respiration, enabling organisms to sustain prolonged activities.

Biological Reactions

Biological reactions, such as aerobic respiration, are central to all life forms. These reactions involve the conversion of substances through enzymatic processes in cells.

• They enable cells to maintain homeostasis and perform functions necessary for survival.
• Most biological reactions are highly regulated to ensure they proceed efficiently and at appropriate rates.
• Aerobic respiration itself is key to many other biological pathways and reactions, linking catabolic and anabolic processes within the cell.

Overall, understanding these reactions not only reveals how living organisms produce energy but also showcases the complex orchestration of chemical processes in life itself.