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Multiple Choice
Which of the following are the main reactants in the process of cellular respiration?
A
Glucose and carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6}$ and $\mathrm{CO_2}$)
B
Carbon dioxide and water ($\mathrm{CO_2}$ and $\mathrm{H_2O}$)
C
Oxygen and ATP ($\mathrm{O_2}$ and ATP)
D
Glucose and oxygen ($\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6}$ and $\mathrm{O_2}$)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the process of cellular respiration. Cellular respiration is a metabolic pathway that converts glucose into energy (ATP) using oxygen. It occurs in most eukaryotic cells and is essential for energy production.
Step 2: Identify the main reactants involved in cellular respiration. Reactants are substances that are consumed during a chemical reaction. In cellular respiration, glucose ($\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6}$) and oxygen ($\mathrm{O_2}$) are the primary reactants.
Step 3: Recall the chemical equation for cellular respiration: $\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6} + \mathrm{6O_2} \rightarrow \mathrm{6CO_2} + \mathrm{6H_2O} + \text{Energy (ATP)}$. This equation shows that glucose and oxygen are used to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy.
Step 4: Eliminate the incorrect options based on the chemical equation. Carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$) and water ($\mathrm{H_2O}$) are products, not reactants. ATP is also a product of the process, not a reactant.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is glucose ($\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6}$) and oxygen ($\mathrm{O_2}$), as they are the substances consumed during cellular respiration to produce energy.