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Chapter 6: Introduction to Cellular Respiration

Overview of Energy Conversion

• Figure 6.1 illustrates a geothermal energy plant converting thermal energy into electrical energy.

  • This process transforms energy from one form (thermal) to another (electrical).

  • The electrical energy produced is used in homes and factories.

Energy Transformation in Living Organisms

• Just like the geothermal plant, living organisms also require energy from their environment, converting it for cellular use.

• Photosynthesis in plants and photosynthetic organisms serves as the initial stage where:

  • Light energy is captured and converted into chemical energy in the form of glucose.

  • Glucose stores potential energy in its chemical bonds, making it essential for cellular activities.

• Cellular respiration is the subsequent process where:

  • A metabolic pathway extracts energy from glucose bonds, producing ATP (adenosine triphosphate).

  • ATP acts as the primary energy currency of cells.

Section 6.1: Energy in Living Systems

Learning Objectives

• Understand and explain the concept of redox reactions (reduction/oxidation).

• Know the overall equation for aerobic cellular respiration and identify which molecules are reduced or oxidized in the process.

• Identify ATP and describe its role in energy transfer within cells.

• Define and explain all bolded terms within the context of cellular respiration.

Definition of Cellular Respiration

• Cellular respiration is defined as:

  • The process that uses potential chemical energy stored in the bonds of organic nutrients to generate ATP.

• Types of Cellular Respiration:

  • Aerobic Cellular Respiration: Requires oxygen to occur.

  • Anaerobic Cellular Respiration: Occurs without the need for oxygen.