Question

Briefly explain how cells can convert sugars into usable energy in the presence of oxygen.

Answer 1

In the presence of oxygen, organisms can convert sugars into usable energy by a process known as cellular respiration. In the process of cellular respiration in the cells, the sugars (mainly glucose) is converted to carbon dioxide, water and energy in the form of ATP in the presence of oxygen. These ATP molecules are used by the cells which provides them with energy. The overall reaction of cellular respiration in a simplified form is as follows-:

6O2 + C6H12O6 ------> 6CO2 + 6H2O + energy ( as ATP).