Cellular Respiration: The Powerhouse of Life
Cellular Respiration: The Powerhouse of Life Cellular respiration is a fundamental metabolic process that converts biochemical energy from nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and then releases waste products. This process is essential for the survival of almost all living organisms, as it provides the energy required for various cellular activities. Cellular respiration occurs in several stages, with glycolysis and the Krebs cycle (also known as the citric acid cycle) being two critical phases. Glycolysis : The First Step Glycolysis is the initial stage of cellular respiration and takes place in the cytoplasm of the cell. This process involves the breakdown of one molecule of glucose (a six-carbon sugar) into two molecules of pyruvate (a three-carbon compound). Glycolysis can occur with or without oxygen, making it an anaerobic process. The steps of glycolysis can be summarized as follows: Energy Investment Phase : Two ATP molecules are consumed to phosphorylate glucose, ...