Final answer:
Aerobic respiration is an example of chemoheterotrophy. It is a process used by heterotrophs to convert glucose and oxygen into energy, carbon dioxide, and water, supplying the ATP required for cellular activities. This process underscores the critical role of aerobic respiration in the global carbon cycle.
Step-by-step explanation:
Aerobic respiration is an example of chemoheterotrophy. This type of respiration occurs in organisms that are called heterotrophs, which cannot produce their own food and must obtain energy and carbon from consuming other organisms. Cellular respiration is the process by which these organisms break down food molecules like glucose and release energy. The process involves the reaction of glucose with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water, releasing energy in the form of ATP which is used to power various cellular processes. Aerobic respiration, distinguished by its use of oxygen, contrasts with processes like photosynthesis and anaerobic respiration that either do not require oxygen or occur in its absence.
During aerobic respiration, the chemical equation C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O + Energy summarizes the process where glucose and oxygen react to form carbon dioxide, water, and energy in the form of ATP. This form of respiration is the most efficient way heterotrophs can obtain energy necessary for survival. Additionally, aerobic respiration plays a crucial role in the carbon cycle by converting organic compounds back into carbon dioxide which autotrophs can then use for photosynthesis.