How do we get Energy from Food?

Respiration is the process by which cells release energy from nutrients. In most cases the food has already been broken down to glucose and it is the glucose that is worked on by the cells to produce energy. There are two types of respiration:

• Aerobic
• Anaerobic.

In aerobic respiration energy is released with the use of oxygen. Anaerobic does not use oxygen. Anaerobic is also a less efficient means of releasing energy. Aerobic respiration produces carbon dioxide and water whereas anaerobic does not produce these compounds.

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