Respiration Process Overview

Respiration is the process by which animals obtain oxygen from their environment and release carbon dioxide. It can occur through two different methods, aerobic and fermentation, depending on whether oxygen is present during metabolism. Aerobic respiration involves cells breaking down glucose using oxygen and releasing energy. Fermentation does not involve oxygen, so less energy is released by the breakdown of glucose. This type of metabolic pathway occurs when there isn't enough oxygen available. When we breathe in, our lungs bring air into our bodies where it reaches our bloodstream, allowing us to absorb oxygen and expel carbon dioxide. Oxygen helps our body produce energy while carbon dioxide is waste gas produced during cellular activity. Additionally, during photosynthesis plants create oxygen, providing the atmosphere with more of this vital element for animal life. The process of respiration has been studied extensively over time, particularly its chemical aspects, such as enzyme reactions and diffusion of gases within organisms. In summary, the processes of respiration allow living things to get rid of waste products like carbon dioxide and receive essentials like oxygen to live healthy lives.