Definition

Noun: * The metabolic processes whereby certain organisms obtain energy from organic molecules; processes that take place in the cells and tissues during which energy is released and carbon dioxide is produced and absorbed by the blood to be transported to the lungs. This is the scientific term for the series of biochemical reactions inside cells that convert nutrients and oxygen into usable energy (ATP), releasing carbon dioxide as a waste product.

Usage

• Internal respiration is a core concept in biology and physiology, describing cellular energy production.
• It is often contrasted with , which is the process of breathing (gas exchange in the lungs).
• It is typically used in academic, medical, and scientific contexts.

Examples

• The efficiency of internal respiration determines an organism's metabolic rate.
• During exercise, the rate of internal respiration increases in muscle cells to meet energy demands.
• Biologists study how different conditions affect the process of internal respiration in tissues.

Advanced Usage

• Internal respiration involves key sub-processes like glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain.
• It is sometimes referred to more specifically as .

Variants and Related Words

• Cellular respiration (n): A nearly synonymous term more commonly used to describe the same intracellular metabolic process.
• Metabolism (n): The broader set of life-sustaining chemical transformations, which includes internal respiration as a central component.
• Aerobic respiration (n): A type of internal respiration that requires oxygen.
• Anaerobic respiration (n): A type of internal respiration that occurs without oxygen.

Synonyms

• Cellular respiration
• Tissue respiration (less common)

Antonyms

• External respiration: The process of inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide; breathing.

Noun

1. the metabolic processes whereby certain organisms obtain energy from organic molecules; processes that take place in the cells and tissues during which energy is released and carbon dioxide is produced and absorbed by the blood to be transported to the lungs