Final answer:
The primary objective of cellular respiration is to produce ATP, which is the energy currency used for various cellular functions. This process involves the oxidation of glucose and requires oxygen as the final electron acceptor to fully break down glucose and produce energy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major goal of cellular respiration is E) produce ATP. Cellular respiration involves a series of metabolic pathways, including glycolysis, the Krebs cycle (also known as the citric acid cycle), and oxidative phosphorylation. Through these stages, cellular respiration oxidizes glucose molecules to produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell. Oxygen is essential in this process as it acts as the final electron acceptor, allowing for the complete breakdown of glucose into carbon dioxide and water, which are the byproducts of respiration. The energy harnessed from glucose oxidation is then stored in ATP molecules, which are used by the cell for various energy-requiring activities.