Difference Between Breathing and Respiration

Breathing

The term Breathing is defined as a biophysical process in which gases are exchanged via inhalation and exhalation. Breathing is also known as 'External Respiration.'

  • Breathing is an external process by which oxygen is taken in, and carbon dioxide is thrown out through the respiratory organs; that's why it is called external respiration.
  • In all vertebrates, the breathing process involves an excessive branch of tubes which connect the nose and alveoli.
  • Respiration is a voluntary process, and energy is required in respiration. A lack of energy could lead to breathing difficulties.
  • The breathing mechanism includes the contraction and relaxation of various muscles in the thoracic cavity because the lungs are unable to inflate on their own.

Respiration

The term Respiration means a biochemical process which is used to release energy from the organic compounds that are then used to carry out various physical activities.

  • In respiration, carbon dioxide is formed by oxidizing glucose a.
  • It is an internal process in which complex organic compounds are broken down into carbon dioxide and water while releasing energy; that's why it is known as internal respiration.
  • Respiration is an involuntary process that happens automatically when all the reactants are available for the reactions.
  • Respiration may occur in the presence of the oxygen as well as in the absence of the oxygen, if respiration is occurred in the presence of the oxygen, then it is known as aerobic respiration, but if the respiration occurs in the absence of the oxygen, then it is known as anaerobic respiration.
  • On different enzymes the respiration process is rely that catalyze various steps in the metabolic path.
  • It is an essential metabolic process because mainly it is a passive process, which results in a huge number of ATPs.

Difference between Breathing and Respiration

Basis for ComparisonBreathingRespiration
DefinitionThe term Breathing is defined as a biophysical process in which inhalation and exhalation are used to exchange gases.The term Respiration means a biochemical process which is used to release energy from the organic compounds that are then used to carry out various physical activities.
StepsInhalation and exhalation are two steps in Breathing.There are three steps in respiration: glycolysis, Kerb's cycle and electron transport chain.
Voluntary or InvoluntaryBreathing involves voluntary actions as well as involuntary ones.Respiration involves involuntary action.
ProcessBreathing is a biophysical process.Respiration is a biochemical process.
Metabolic reactionsBreathing does not involve any metabolic reactions.Respiration is a multi-reaction metabolic process.
MusclesBreathing involves various respiratory muscles and the diaphragm.During respiration, muscles are not involved.
Main activitiesGas exchange and ventilation are the two main activities during breathing.Gas exchange and breakdown into simpler forms are the two main activities during respiration.
RegulationThe diaphragm and respiratory muscles regulate breathing.Respiration is regulated by different enzymes.
Intracellular or extracellularBreathing is an extracellular process.Respiration is an intracellular process.
OrgansThe breathing includes most of the respiratory system's organs.Respiration occurs in the mitochondria of cells.
EnzymesEnzymes are not involved in breathing.Various enzymes catalyze different respiration steps.
EnergyBreathing does not provide energy.Respiration produces energy.
Occurs inIn all vertebrates and some arthropods, breathing occurs.In all living organisms present on the earth, respiration occurs.
PurposeBreathing gives oxygen to various parts of the body.Respiration produces large amounts of energy from the degradation of organic compounds.





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