Cellular respiration is a metabolic process by which cells convert biochemical energy from nutrients, primarily glucose, into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell, while releasing waste products such as carbon dioxide and water. This process is essential for providing the energy needed for cellular activities like growth, reproduction, and maintenance of cellular functions

. There are two main types of cellular respiration:

• Aerobic respiration: Requires oxygen and occurs mainly in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells. It involves multiple stages-glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain-and produces a large amount of ATP by oxidizing glucose

• Anaerobic respiration: Occurs without oxygen, using other electron acceptors or fermentation pathways. It produces less ATP than aerobic respiration but allows cells to generate energy in low-oxygen environments

The overall process involves breaking down glucose through a series of biochemical reactions, many of which are redox reactions, releasing energy gradually. This controlled energy release is unlike combustion and is vital for sustaining life

. In summary, cellular respiration is the fundamental process that enables cells to extract energy from food molecules and convert it into a usable form (ATP) to power all biological functions