How is 6CO2+6H2O used in Cellular Respiration: C6H12O6 + 6 O2 ------> 6CO2 + 6H2O+ Energy?

Question

i am supposed to explain cellular respiration using C6H12O6 + 6 O2 6CO2 + 6H2O+ energy and i dont know how to explain the last part of the equation.

Answer 1

Since you said you dont know how to explain the second part I assume u understand that the first part represents a carbohydrate (glucose) and that it combines with oxygen. The result is what is expired from that reaction (animals and bacteria respire). If you think about it how humans perform respiration, we consume carbs and breathe in oxygen. Our lungs convert it into carbon dioxide and water plus a small amount of energy to balance the electrons in the equation. Our exhaling breath contains carbon dioxide and water vapor.