Which of the following is the correct balanced chemical equation for cellular respiration?

• A. C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6H_2O \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6O_2
• B. 6CO_2 + 6H_2O \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2
• C. C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6CO_2 \rightarrow 6O_2 + 6H_2O
• D. C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_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 (C₆H₁₂O₆) is broken down in the presence of oxygen (O₂) to produce carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), and energy (usually in the form of ATP).
2. Step 2: Recall the general formula for cellular respiration. The balanced chemical equation for cellular respiration is: C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + energy.
3. Step 3: Analyze the given options. Compare each option to the general formula for cellular respiration. Look for the correct reactants (glucose and oxygen) and products (carbon dioxide, water, and energy).
4. Step 4: Verify the stoichiometry of the equation. Ensure that the number of atoms for each element is balanced on both sides of the equation. For example, glucose contains 6 carbon atoms, 12 hydrogen atoms, and 6 oxygen atoms, which must be accounted for in the products.
5. Step 5: Identify the correct answer. Based on the comparison and stoichiometry check, the correct balanced equation for cellular respiration is: C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + energy.