Oxygen is super important for two big processes: cellular respiration and photosynthesis. It helps make energy!

Cellular Respiration

• What it does: Oxygen is needed for aerobic respiration. This is how our cells turn sugar (glucose) into energy (ATP).

• Easy equation: You can think of it like this:

  • Glucose + Oxygen → Carbon Dioxide + Water + Energy (ATP)

Photosynthesis

• What it does: In photosynthesis, plants take sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to make sugar and oxygen.

• Easy equation: It looks like this:

  • Carbon Dioxide + Water + Sunlight → Sugar + Oxygen

So, to sum it up, oxygen is really important. It helps cells create energy and is also made by plants when they make their food!