Which product is primarily released by the respiratory system when a person exhales during cellular respiration?

• A. Oxygen (\(\mathrm{O_2}\))
• B. Glucose (\(\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6}\))
• C. Carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO_2}\))
• D. Water (\(\mathrm{H_2O}\))

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the process of cellular respiration. Cellular respiration is the process by which cells convert glucose (\(\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6}\)) and oxygen (\(\mathrm{O_2}\)) into energy in the form of ATP, releasing byproducts such as carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO_2}\)) and water (\(\mathrm{H_2O}\)).
2. Step 2: Identify the role of the respiratory system in cellular respiration. The respiratory system facilitates gas exchange, bringing in oxygen (\(\mathrm{O_2}\)) for cellular respiration and removing carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO_2}\)), a waste product of the process.
3. Step 3: Recall the chemical equation for cellular respiration: \(\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O + Energy (ATP)}\). This equation shows that carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO_2}\)) is produced as a byproduct during the breakdown of glucose.
4. Step 4: Consider the act of exhaling. When a person exhales, the respiratory system expels carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO_2}\)) that has been transported from the cells to the lungs via the bloodstream.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the primary product released by the respiratory system during exhalation is carbon dioxide (\(\mathrm{CO_2}\)), as it is a waste product of cellular respiration.