Significance of Respiration

Respiration is an important process in nature. It is a process by which the solar energy trapped by the plants in the food can be utilised. The organic compounds are broken down to release energy. This energy is in the form of ATP molecules and is made available for all the vital activities of the organism. ATP can also be stored.

Photosynthesis utilises carbon dioxide and releases oxygen whereas respiration makes use of this oxygen and releases carbon dioxide, which is then used by plants. Respiration and photosynthesis are complementary to each other and together maintain the delicate oxygen-carbon dioxide balance in nature.

Some of the energy released by respiration is also in the form of heat. This heat energy contributes significantly in the warm-blooded animals towards the body.