Which of the following chemical equations correctly represents cellular respiration?

• A. \$6\,\mathrm{CO_2} + 6\,\mathrm{H_2O} \rightarrow \mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6} + 6\,\mathrm{O_2}$
• B. \(\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6} + 6\,\mathrm{O_2} \rightarrow 6\,\mathrm{CO_2} + 6\,\mathrm{H_2O} + \text{energy}\)
• C. \$2\,\mathrm{H_2O}_2 \rightarrow 2\,\mathrm{H_2O} + \mathrm{O_2}$
• D. \(\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6} \rightarrow 2\,\mathrm{C_2H_5OH} + 2\,\mathrm{CO_2}\)

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of cellular respiration. Cellular respiration is a metabolic process where glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) is broken down in the presence of oxygen (O₂) to produce carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), and energy in the form of ATP.
2. Step 2: Analyze the chemical equations provided. Cellular respiration involves the oxidation of glucose, so the correct equation should show glucose reacting with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy.
3. Step 3: Compare the given equations to the general formula for cellular respiration: \( \mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6} + 6\,\mathrm{O_2} \rightarrow 6\,\mathrm{CO_2} + 6\,\mathrm{H_2O} + \text{energy} \). This matches the second equation provided in the problem.
4. Step 4: Eliminate the incorrect options. The first equation represents photosynthesis, which is the reverse of cellular respiration. The third equation represents fermentation, where glucose is converted into ethanol and carbon dioxide in the absence of oxygen. The fourth equation represents the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, which is unrelated to cellular respiration.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct chemical equation for cellular respiration is \( \mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6} + 6\,\mathrm{O_2} \rightarrow 6\,\mathrm{CO_2} + 6\,\mathrm{H_2O} + \text{energy} \). This equation accurately represents the process of cellular respiration.