Cellular respiration is the process by which biological fuels are oxidized in the presence of an inorganic electron acceptor, such as oxygen, to produce large amounts of energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This process involves a set of metabolic reactions and occurs in the cells of organisms to convert chemical energy from nutrients into ATP while releasing waste products [1]. 

Respiration can be either aerobic, requiring oxygen, or anaerobic; some organisms can switch between these two types [1]. The process includes glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation, highlighting that while the theoretical yield of ATP from one glucose molecule can reach up to 38, actual yields are typically around 30 due to inefficiencies [1]. 

Cellular respiration is vital for fueling cellular activity by providing the energy necessary for processes such as biosynthesis and locomotion [1].

What is cellular respiration?

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