What are the stages of respiration?

Respiration occurs in a series of stages through which glucose is gradually broken down to release energy. These stages mainly take place inside the cell.

The first stage is glycolysis, which occurs in the cytoplasm. In this stage, one molecule of glucose is broken down into two smaller molecules called pyruvate, releasing a small amount of energy.

The second stage is the Krebs cycle (also called the citric acid cycle), which takes place in the mitochondria. Here, pyruvate is further broken down, releasing carbon dioxide and energy-rich molecules.

The final stage is the electron transport chain, where most of the energy is produced. Oxygen is used in this stage to produce a large amount of energy along with water.

These stages together ensure the complete breakdown of glucose and efficient release of energy in cells.