Step 1: Understand the process of alcoholic fermentation. Alcoholic fermentation is a type of anaerobic respiration where glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) is converted into ethanol (C₂H₅OH), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and a small amount of ATP. This process occurs in yeast and some microorganisms.
Step 2: Analyze the given equations. The first equation represents aerobic respiration, which requires oxygen (O₂) and produces carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), and a large amount of ATP. The second equation represents lactic acid fermentation, where glucose is converted into lactic acid (C₃H₆O₃) and ATP. The third equation represents alcoholic fermentation, and the fourth equation represents photosynthesis.
Step 3: Identify the correct equation for alcoholic fermentation. The correct equation should show glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) being converted into ethanol (C₂H₅OH), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and ATP, which matches the third equation: C₆H₁₂O₆ → 2C₂H₅OH + 2CO₂ + 2ATP.
Step 4: Compare the products of alcoholic fermentation with the other processes. Aerobic respiration produces water and a large amount of ATP, lactic acid fermentation produces lactic acid, and photosynthesis produces glucose and oxygen. Only alcoholic fermentation produces ethanol and carbon dioxide.
Step 5: Conclude that the third equation, C₆H₁₂O₆ → 2C₂H₅OH + 2CO₂ + 2ATP, best represents alcoholic fermentation based on the products and the anaerobic nature of the process.