Question

A reaction in living that burns food

Answer 1

The main purpose of this article is to give an idea of the mechanism of aerobic respiration, the acquisition of energy by an organism through oxidizing food. The usual sense of respiration, breathing, is part of this process as we take in air so that oxygen can be absorbed, and carbon dioxide evolved, which are the gaseous participants. This fascinating story is of practical utility, since it helps us to understand how we can regulate our diet properly.

Before respiration is taken up, a brief survey of life and its cellular organization is made, for the benefit of those, like me, whose knowledge of biology may be deficient. This will help to understand respiration by setting the scene for it.