Which of the following represents the balanced chemical equation for cellular respiration?

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

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of cellular respiration. Cellular respiration is a metabolic process where glucose (\(\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6}\)) is broken down in the presence of oxygen (\(\mathrm{O_2}\)) to produce carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO_2}\)), water (\(\mathrm{H_2O}\)), and energy in the form of ATP.
2. Step 2: Recall the general formula for cellular respiration. The balanced 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 represents the complete oxidation of glucose.
3. Step 3: Analyze the options provided. Compare each option to the general formula for cellular respiration. Eliminate options that do not match the reactants and products of cellular respiration.
4. Step 4: Verify the stoichiometry of the correct equation. Ensure that the number of atoms for each element is balanced on both sides of the equation. For example, glucose (\(\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6}\)) contains 6 carbon atoms, which are accounted for in the 6 molecules of carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO_2}\)) produced.
5. Step 5: Confirm the correct answer. The balanced 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 matches the fourth option provided in the problem.