What is the primary difference between cellular respiration and breathing?

• A. Cellular respiration involves the exchange of gases in the lungs, while breathing is the conversion of glucose into ATP.
• B. Cellular respiration occurs only in plants, while breathing occurs only in animals.
• C. Cellular respiration is the intake of oxygen, while breathing is the release of carbon dioxide.
• D. Cellular respiration is a biochemical process that occurs in cells to produce energy, while breathing is the physical process of inhaling and exhaling air.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that cellular respiration and breathing are two distinct processes that are often confused due to their involvement with gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide.
2. Recognize that cellular respiration is a biochemical process that occurs within cells. It involves the conversion of glucose and oxygen into ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy currency of the cell, along with the production of carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.
3. Identify that breathing, also known as ventilation, is a physical process involving the movement of air into and out of the lungs. It facilitates the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the body and the environment.
4. Differentiate the locations where these processes occur: cellular respiration takes place in the mitochondria of cells, while breathing occurs in the respiratory system, primarily involving the lungs.
5. Conclude that the primary difference is that cellular respiration is a cellular-level biochemical process for energy production, whereas breathing is a mechanical process for gas exchange with the environment.