During respiration, pyruvic acid is formed by the process of …………………….. .

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Respiration**: Respiration is a biochemical process that involves the breakdown of complex organic compounds to release energy. It primarily involves the oxidation of these compounds.

2. **Identifying the Initial Substrate**: The process of respiration often begins with glucose, a simple sugar. This glucose undergoes a series of transformations during respiration.

3. **Recognizing the Process**: The first step in the respiration pathway is called glycolysis. The term "glycolysis" is derived from the Greek words "glycos," meaning sugar, and "lysis," meaning splitting. Therefore, glycolysis refers to the splitting of sugar (glucose).

...