The mechanism of breakdown of food materials within the cells to release energy is called

Options

A. Cellular digestion
B. Cellular photosynthesis
C. Cellular respiration
D. Cell division

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for the term that describes the process of breaking down food materials within cells to release energy.

2. **Identifying the Process**: In living organisms, particularly in humans, the breakdown of food primarily involves glucose, which is derived from carbohydrates.

3. **Chemical Reaction**: The process involves the reaction of glucose (C6H12O6) with oxygen (O2). This reaction is known as oxidation.

4. **Products of the Reaction**: The breakdown of glucose in the presence of oxygen results in the production of carbon dioxide (CO2), water (H2O), and energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate).

5. **Naming the Process**: Since this entire process occurs within the cells and is responsible for energy production, it is referred to as "cellular respiration."

6. **Eliminating Incorrect Options**:
- "Cellular digestion" is incorrect because glucose is not fully digested; it is broken down.
- "Cellular photosynthesis" is incorrect as humans do not perform photosynthesis; they lack chlorophyll.
- "Cell division" is unrelated to energy release and is therefore incorrect.

7. **Conclusion**: The correct term for the mechanism of breakdown of food materials within the cells to release energy is **cellular respiration**.

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