Final answer:
The equation in question represents cellular respiration, a multistage process where glucose is converted into energy (ATP) with water and carbon dioxide as byproducts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The equation C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + 36 ATP represents cellular respiration. This process occurs in the cells of all living things, where glucose is broken down in the presence of oxygen to release carbon dioxide, water, and energy in the form of ATP.
The stages of cellular respiration include glycolysis, the Krebs cycle (or the citric acid cycle), and the electron transport chain. Glycolysis happens in the cytoplasm and does not require oxygen, while the Krebs cycle and electron transport occur in the mitochondria and do require oxygen.