What is the Reason Respiration is considered an Exothermic Reaction?
By BYJU'S Exam Prep
Updated on: November 9th, 2023
The reason why respiration is considered an exothermic reaction is that a huge amount of heat and energy are released along with the other products in the process of respiration. Therefore, the air we release while breathing is warm because it is a by-product of the reaction. The sugars or carbohydrates we consume are broken down into simpler parts called glucose during respiration. The glucose burns with oxygen to produce CO2, H2O, and heat.
Table of content
Respiration is an Exothermic Reaction
During the process of nutrition, the food material that is taken is utilized by the cells to provide energy to the body for various purposes. The energy that we require to function comes from the food we eat. When these food particles are broken down into simpler substances, heat is evolved. So, respiration is considered an exothermic reaction.
Respiration is equivalent to the burning of fuel because it involves the burning of sugar or glucose along with oxygen within our cells to produce the energy required for all other reactions and processes.
- Furthermore, the energy that we require to function comes from the food we eat.
- And during digestion, the food particles are broken down into simpler components, and there is an evolution of heat.
- This is why respiration is considered an exothermic reaction explains.
Here is the chemical equation that explains the process of respiration:
C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O + Energy
Why is Respiration considered an Exothermic Reaction?
As discussed above, Respiration is an exothermic reaction because the energy provided to the body is generated when glucose combines with the oxygen present in the cells of our body. The food that we eat is ruptured into simpler substances such as carbohydrates to form glucose at the time of digestion.
An exothermic reaction is a process wherein energy is released in the form of heat and light along with the formation of products. Examples of exothermic reactions are the conversion of decomposed vegetable matter into compost, the burning of natural gas, etc.
Summary:
What is the Reason Respiration is considered an Exothermic Reaction?
Respiration is an exothermic reaction because it results in the production of heat and energy. Any chemical reaction that results in an increase in temperature is considered an exothermic reaction. During respiration, the sugars or carbohydrates we eat are broken into simpler components called glucose. After combustion with oxygen, the glucose gives CO2 gas, H2O, plus heat.
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