Why do organisms need to obtain energy via cellular respiration? To perform glycolysis, to grow and produce, to photosynthesize or so to break down ATP?
Organisms need to obtain energy via cellular respiration for several reasons:
1. To perform glycolysis: Glycolysis is the first step in cellular respiration, where glucose is broken down into smaller molecules, releasing a small amount of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and NADH (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide + hydrogen). This process provides a quick and efficient way to produce some energy for the cell.
2. To grow and produce: Energy obtained through cellular respiration is essential for the growth, development, and production of new cells and molecules within an organism. Different cellular activities like protein synthesis, DNA replication, and cell division require a constant supply of energy.
3. To break down ATP: ATP is the primary energy currency of cells. It provides the necessary energy for various cellular processes, including muscle contractions, enzyme reactions, active transport, and signaling. Cellular respiration helps break down ATP molecules, releasing stored energy that can be utilized by cells.
4. To photosynthesize: While cellular respiration is primarily associated with obtaining energy from organic molecules, some organisms also need cellular respiration to support their photosynthetic activities. During photosynthesis, plants and certain other organisms convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This glucose is later broken down through cellular respiration to release ATP for use in cellular processes.
In summary, cellular respiration is essential for organisms as it provides the energy needed to perform various cellular functions, grow, produce new cells, and break down ATP molecules for immediate energy utilization.