Step 1: Understand the concept of cellular respiration. Cellular respiration is a metabolic process where glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) is broken down in the presence of oxygen (O₂) to produce carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), and energy (usually in the form of ATP).
Step 2: Recall the general formula for cellular respiration. The balanced chemical equation for cellular respiration is: C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + energy.
Step 3: Analyze the given options. Compare each option to the general formula for cellular respiration. Look for the correct reactants (glucose and oxygen) and products (carbon dioxide, water, and energy).
Step 4: Verify the stoichiometry of the equation. Ensure that the number of atoms for each element is balanced on both sides of the equation. For example, glucose contains 6 carbon atoms, 12 hydrogen atoms, and 6 oxygen atoms, which must be accounted for in the products.
Step 5: Identify the correct answer. Based on the comparison and stoichiometry check, the correct balanced equation for cellular respiration is: C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + energy.