Which of the following correctly represents the overall chemical equation for cellular respiration?

• A. 6O_2 + 6H_2O \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6CO_2 + ATP
• B. C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6CO_2 \rightarrow 6O_2 + 6H_2O + ATP
• C. 6CO_2 + 6H_2O \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 + ATP
• D. C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O + ATP

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the process of cellular respiration. Cellular respiration is the process by which cells convert glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂) into carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), and energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). This process is essential for providing energy to cells.
2. Step 2: Recall the general chemical equation for cellular respiration. The correct equation is: C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + ATP. This equation shows that one molecule of glucose reacts with six molecules of oxygen to produce six molecules of carbon dioxide, six molecules of water, and energy in the form of ATP.
3. Step 3: Analyze the given options. Compare each option to the correct chemical equation for cellular respiration. Look for the correct reactants (C₆H₁₂O₆ and O₂) and products (CO₂, H₂O, and ATP) in the correct proportions.
4. Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options. For example, the first option (6O₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6CO₂ + ATP) represents photosynthesis, not cellular respiration. The second option (C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6CO₂ → 6O₂ + 6H₂O + ATP) is incorrect because it reverses the roles of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
5. Step 5: Identify the correct option. The fourth option (C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + ATP) correctly represents the overall chemical equation for cellular respiration, as it includes the correct reactants and products in the proper proportions.