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respiration

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Respiration is the process by which living things get energy from food. It happens inside cells, and it involves the breakdown of glucose into carbon dioxide and water.

When we breathe in, we take in oxygen from the air. This oxygen is used to break down glucose in our cells. The breakdown of glucose releases energy, which is used by the cells to do work. The waste products of respiration are carbon dioxide and water.

Respiration is essential for life. Without it, we would not be able to get the energy we need to function.

How can the word be used?

The patient's respiration was shallow and rapid.

respiration

Different forms of the word

Noun:

  • the process of taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide from the lungs.

Etymology

The word "respiration" comes from the Latin word "respirare", which means "to breathe".

The first recorded use of the word "respiration" in English was in the 14th century.

Question

What happens during respiration?