The burning of coal, a fossil fuel, produces water and carbon dioxide. How is this similar to cellular respiration?
A Both require high temperatures.
B Heat energy is lost in both cases.
C Both involve the breakdown of carbon compounds.
D Some amount of carbon remains un-oxidized in both cases.
Question & Answer
How is the burning of coal similar to cellular respiration?
1 Answer
Verified archiveThe correct answer is C: Both involve the breakdown of carbon compounds.
Explanation: In both the burning of coal and cellular respiration, carbon compounds are broken down to release energy. In the case of coal, carbon in the coal reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water, while in cellular respiration, glucose (a carbon compound) is broken down in the presence of oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water as well, releasing energy that cells use.