Step 1: Begin by understanding the process of cellular respiration. Cellular respiration is a metabolic pathway that converts glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) into usable energy (ATP) for the cell, releasing carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) as byproducts.
Step 2: Analyze the chemical equation options provided. Cellular respiration involves the breakdown of glucose in the presence of oxygen (O₂), producing carbon dioxide, water, and energy. The correct equation should reflect this process.
Step 3: Recall the balanced chemical equation for cellular respiration: C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6 O₂ → 6 CO₂ + 6 H₂O + energy. This equation shows that one molecule of glucose reacts with six molecules of oxygen to produce six molecules of carbon dioxide, six molecules of water, and energy.
Step 4: Compare the given options to the correct equation. The correct answer matches the balanced equation for cellular respiration: C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6 O₂ → 6 CO₂ + 6 H₂O + energy.
Step 5: Eliminate incorrect options by identifying their processes. For example, the equation 6 CO₂ + 6 H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6 O₂ represents photosynthesis, not cellular respiration. Similarly, C₆H₁₂O₆ → 2 C₂H₅OH + 2 CO₂ represents fermentation, and C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6 CO₂ → 12 C + 6 H₂O is not a valid biological process.