Respiration is the biochemical process in which the cells of an organism obtain energy by combining oxygen and glucose, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide, water, and ATP...Breathing is simply inhaling of oxygen

Understanding the Concepts
Respiration and breathing are often confused, but they refer to different processes essential for survival.
Breathing
- Definition: Breathing, or ventilation, is the physical process of inhaling and exhaling air.
- Mechanism: Involves the diaphragm and intercostal muscles to expand and contract the lungs.
- Purpose: Primarily to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide with the environment.
- Control: It is a voluntary process but can be involuntarily controlled by the brain.
Respiration
- Definition: Respiration is a biochemical process that occurs in cells, involving the conversion of nutrients into energy.
- Types: Can be aerobic (with oxygen) or anaerobic (without oxygen).
- Purpose: Produces adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell.
- Location: Takes place in the mitochondria of cells for aerobic respiration and in the cytoplasm for anaerobic respiration.
Key Differences
- Nature: Breathing is a physical process, while respiration is a chemical process.
- Location: Breathing occurs in the lungs; respiration occurs in the cells.
- Purpose: Breathing facilitates gas exchange; respiration produces energy.
Conclusion
Understanding the distinction between breathing and respiration is crucial for comprehending how organisms obtain energy and maintain life. While breathing provides the necessary gases, respiration transforms those gases into usable energy.