OXYGEN
A decomposer gets its energy from breaking down organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, into simpler molecules through the process of decomposition. This releases the stored energy in the organic matter, which the decomposer uses to carry out its life functions.
Glycolysis
Energy is required when organic molecules are synthesized because this process involves building complex molecules which requires input of energy. When organic molecules are broken down, energy is released because the breaking of bonds releases stored energy from the molecules. This energy can be used by the cell for various cellular processes.
oxidation
The oxidation of organic molecules primarily occurs during cellular respiration, specifically in the Krebs cycle (also known as the citric acid cycle) and the electron transport chain. In these stages, organic molecules such as glucose are broken down, releasing energy stored in their chemical bonds. This process involves the gradual removal of electrons from the organic substrates, ultimately leading to the production of ATP, carbon dioxide, and water.
A cell does not burn up as it releases energy from organic molecules because the temperature at which metabolism occurs is the normal body temperature. This is an important component of the temperature-control mechanism of organisms.
The energy released from burning organic material comes from the chemical bonds within the molecules of the material. When these bonds are broken during combustion, it releases heat and light energy. The primary source of this energy is usually stored in the form of carbon-based molecules like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Degradation and some oxidation to smaller molecules.
Respiration is a biological process that occurs in living organisms to produce energy by breaking down organic molecules with the help of oxygen. Combustion, on the other hand, is a chemical process that involves the rapid oxidation of a material in the presence of oxygen to produce heat and light. While respiration is a controlled process occurring within cells, combustion is typically an uncontrolled process that releases energy in the form of heat and light.
Energy harvested from organic molecules is contained in the chemical bonds within those molecules. This energy is released through the process of cellular respiration, where organic molecules are broken down and the energy is used to produce ATP, the cell's primary energy source.
The oxidation of organic compounds by molecular oxygen releases free energy because the bonds in the organic compounds are more stable than the bonds in the products (CO2 and water). When the organic compounds are oxidized, new bonds are formed and energy is released in the process. This energy is made available for cellular processes such as ATP production.
The oxidation of inorganic molecules or methane.