Respiration — Science definition
Cellular processes releasing usable energy from organic material, with associated matter changes.
Where it is taught
- Cycling Matter Through Organisms & Environment — Ecosystems, Watersheds & Conservation, Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems, Grade 6
In use
The fast loop runs through photosynthesis, respiration and decomposition in days to decades.
Cycling Matter Through Organisms & Environment
Questions using respiration
Problem 1
Which statement correctly uses respiration in Cycling Matter Through Organisms & Environment?
- Decomposers make matter disappear.
- respiration: Cellular processes releasing usable energy from organic material, with associated matter changes.
- Recycling matter automatically recycles all usable energy.
- One illustrative result establishes every real condition and needs no further evidence.
Answer and explanation
respiration: Cellular processes releasing usable energy from organic material, with associated matter changes.
Cellular processes releasing usable energy from organic material, with associated matter changes. Soil: 20 − 5 + 3 = 18 units. Plants: 8 + 5 − 2 = 11. Animals: 2 + 2 − 3 = 1. The total remains 30 units. These are simplified nutrient-account units, not a complete real decomposition pathway or energy total; actual stores and processes would be more detailed.