Which of the following is a product of cellular respiration?

• A. Oxygen (\(\mathrm{O_2}\))
• B. Glucose (\(\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6}\))
• C. Light energy
• D. Carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO_2}\))

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of cellular respiration: Cellular respiration is a metabolic pathway that converts glucose (\(\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6}\)) and oxygen (\(\mathrm{O_2}\)) into energy in the form of ATP, with byproducts such as carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO_2}\)) and water (\(\mathrm{H_2O}\)).
2. Identify the reactants: The main reactants in cellular respiration are glucose (\(\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6}\)) and oxygen (\(\mathrm{O_2}\)), which are consumed during the process.
3. Recognize the products: The products of cellular respiration include carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO_2}\)), water (\(\mathrm{H_2O}\)), and ATP (energy). Oxygen (\(\mathrm{O_2}\)), glucose (\(\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6}\)), and light energy are not products of this process.
4. Relate the question to the products: Among the options provided, carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO_2}\)) is the correct answer because it is a byproduct released during cellular respiration.
5. Conclude the reasoning: Cellular respiration is essential for energy production in cells, and carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO_2}\)) is a waste product expelled from the organism during this process.