What is the Difference between Breathing and Respiration
Respiratory system
All living organisms are made up of a number of cells. Each of these cells requires oxygen to break down food and obtain energy. The intake of air rich in oxygen is the first step. This is called inhalation or breathing in. The next step involves a series of chemical reactions, which help in the release of energy. Several enzymes and catalysts (substances that speed up reactions) are also involved in this process. When food is broken down, the reaction produces water and carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is toxic to the body, so it has to be moved out. The removal of air rich in carbon dioxide is called exhalation or breathing out. This step completes the cycle. The fundamental difference between breathing and respiration is:
Breathing is the process of intake of air rich in oxygen (inhalation or breathing in) and giving out air rich in carbon dioxide (exhalation or breathing out).
Respiration is the process of releasing energy from the breakdown offood.
Table lists some more differences between breathing and respiration.
Differences between breathing and respiration
| Breathing | Respiration |
| 1. It is the process of inhalation and exhalation. It is a physical process. No chemical reaction takes place; only an exchange of gases is involved. | 1. It is a series of chemical reactions that result in the release of energy by the oxidation of food molecules. |
| 2. No enzymes or other catalysts are involved. | 2. Enzymes and other catalysts are involved. |
| 3. It takes place outside the cells. | 3. It takes place inside the cells. |
| 4. No energy is released during this process. | 4. Energy is released during the process. |
1. Respiratory system in Animals
2. Respiratory system in Humans
3. Respiratory system in Plants