How Oxygen Supports Human Life
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Background Information
Introduction
Oxygen (O2) is required by the body’s cells to transfer energy from nutrient molecules to ATP (adenosine triphosphate) during aerobic respiration.
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Oxygen’s Role in ATP Production
Oxygen (O2) is required by the body’s cells to transfer energy from nutrient molecules to ATP (adenosine triphosphate) during aerobic respiration. This process releases water (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2) as by-products.
The energy stored in ATP is then used to drive other chemical reactions inside cells. Therefore, without oxygen, the energy to sustain life would not exist.
Where ATP is Produced
After O2 molecules leave the blood capillaries in the tissues, they enter the mitochondria of nearby tissue cells along with nutrient molecules breakdown products.
The O2 molecules and nutrient breakdown products participate in complex chemical reactions inside the mitochondria that produce ATP. Because of their role in ATP production, mitochondria are often called the powerhouses of cells.
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References and Attributions
OpenStax College – “Requirements for Human Life.” (Access for free at – https://openstax.org/books/anatomy-and-physiology/pages/1-introduction)
Access for free at – https://openstax.org/books/anatomy-and-physiology/pages/1-introduction
Wikipedia – “Cellular Respiration.”