The complete process by which cells break down glucose and other organic molecules to produce ATP, involving glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and the electron transport chain. This process can occur with or without oxygen.
Combines 'cellular' from Latin 'cellula' meaning small room, with 'respiration' from Latin 'respirare' meaning to breathe. The term evolved in the early 20th century as scientists realized that the fundamental 'breathing' process actually occurs inside individual cells.
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