Cellular Respiration

Definition

Cellular respiration is the process by which cells in plants, animals and fungi break down glucose (a type of sugar) and turn it into energy. This energy is then used to fuel various cellular activities.

Related terms

Glycolysis:

This is the first step in cellular respiration where glucose is broken down into two molecules of pyruvate.

Mitochondria:

These are the 'powerhouses' of the cell where most of cellular respiration takes place.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate):

This is the main energy currency for cells. It's what your body uses to do work after it's produced by cellular respiration.