Difference between breathing and respiration

by Yogi P - November 2, 2023

Difference Between Breathing and Respiration

The terms ‘breathing’ and ‘respiration’ are often used interchangeably, especially in everyday conversation. However, in the world of biology and physiology, they refer to two distinct processes related to the vital function of obtaining oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide.

This article elucidates the fundamental differences between breathing and respiration.

1. Definition

• Breathing: It refers to the mechanical process in which organisms inhale oxygen from the environment and exhale carbon dioxide into the environment. Breathing involves the movement of the diaphragm and rib muscles, leading to the inflation and deflation of the lungs.
• Respiration: This is a complex metabolic process where oxygen is used to break down glucose to produce energy, which the cells of the body can use. This energy release is accompanied by the production of carbon dioxide and water.

2. Components Involved

• Breathing: Mainly involves the respiratory system, which includes the nose, trachea, bronchi, lungs, and diaphragm.
• Respiration: Involves cells throughout the body, as they utilize oxygen and glucose to produce energy. The process primarily occurs in the mitochondria of the cells.

3. Process Type

• Breathing: It’s a physical or mechanical process.
• Respiration: It’s a biochemical process.

4. Main Purpose

• Breathing: The main aim is the exchange of gases. Oxygen is taken in to be used in respiration, and carbon dioxide, a waste product of respiration, is expelled out.
• Respiration: The main purpose is to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy currency of the cell. It also produces carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.

5. Dependency

• Breathing: Independent of respiration in the sense that breathing can occur without respiration, like in holding one’s breath.
• Respiration: Dependent on breathing for the supply of oxygen and removal of carbon dioxide.

6. Duration

• Breathing: Occurs throughout an organism’s life, starting from birth until death, continuously.
• Respiration: Can momentarily stop under certain conditions, such as when an organism goes into a state of torpor or suspended animation. However, for most organisms, it occurs as long as the organism is alive and there’s a supply of oxygen and glucose.

7. Products and Byproducts

• Breathing: Does not produce any energy. The main byproduct is carbon dioxide which is expelled from the body.
• Respiration: Produces energy in the form of ATP. The byproducts are carbon dioxide and water.

What are 3 differences between breathing and respiration?

• Breathing refers to the exchange of air in and out of the lungs, while respiration involves cellular energy production.
• Secondly, breathing is a voluntary process, while respiration is involuntary.
• Finally, breathing mainly involves the inhalation and exhalation of air, while respiration includes cellular metabolic reactions.

Conclusion

While both breathing and respiration are vital for sustaining life, they play distinct roles in the physiology of organisms. Breathing focuses on the simple exchange of gases, whereas respiration delves deeper into the cellular level, ensuring that every cell gets the energy it requires for its functions.

Recognizing the difference between these two processes is fundamental for a thorough understanding of how living organisms obtain and utilize energy.