What Is the Formula for Cellular Respiration?

Updated April 23, 2019

By Chris Deziel

The cellular processes inside the bodies of humans, animals and even fish depend on the
formation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This complex organic chemical can convert into
less complex mono- and di-phosphates, releasing energy that the organism consumes. It is
also involved in the production of DNA and RNA. ATP is one of the by-products of cellular
respiration, for which the raw ingredients are glucose and oxygen.

Chemical Formula for Respiration

Glucose, a complex sugar, combines with oxygen during respiration to produce water, carbon
dioxide and ATP. The combination of one glucose molecule with six molecules of gaseous
oxygen produces six water molecules, six carbon dioxide molecules and 38 molecules of
ATP. The chemical equation for the reaction is:

C6H12O6 + 6O2 --> 6CO2 + 6H2O + 36 or 38 ATP molecules

While glucose is the main fuel for respiration, energy can also come from fats and proteins, although
the process is not as efficient. Respiration proceeds in four discrete stages and releases about 39
percent of the energy stored in the glucose molecules.

Reference

1. https://sciencing.com/formula-cellular-respiration-5513197.html