What Is the Word Equation for Respiration?

The word equation for cellular respiration is glucose (sugar) + oxygen = carbon dioxide + water + energy (as ATP). The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is C6H1206 + 6O2 = 6CO2 + 6H2O + energy (ATP). However, cellular or aerobic respiration takes place in stages, including glycolysis and the Kreb’s cycle.

Adenosine triphosphate molecules temporarily store the energy that is produced in this reaction. ATP is found in the cytoplasm of cells.

The chemical equation for cellular respiration is the opposite of the photosynthesis reaction in plants. Photosynthesis involves plants using the reactants carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen.