Comparisons and Differences between Respiration and Combustion

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In this article, we will learn the major differences between combustion and respiration which will help students to get a good grasp in both the topics. 

RespirationCombustion
Cellular. It is a cellular process which occurs inside living cells.CombustionIt is a non-cellular process.
Temperature. Temperature does not rise above 40 °C.Combustion produces temperature of 600-2000 °C.
Control. It is under biological control.It is an uncontrolled process.
Steps. It is a multistep reaction.It is single step reaction.
Enzymes. A number of enzymes take part in reaction.No enzyme is involved.
Energy. It is released in small packets in several steps.It is released in large amount in one step.
Heat and Light. About 50% of energy is liberated as heat. Light is not produced.Whole energy is produced as heat and light.
Storage of Energy. 50% of liberated energy is stored as ATP molecules.There is no storage of energy.
Intermediates. Several intermediates are producedNo intermediates are produced.
Oxidation. It is terminal where oxygen combines with hydrogen of reduced coenzymes.Oxidation is direct where every oxidisable atom is oxidised without relation to presence of hydrogen.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Respiration is a slower process than combustion. Respiration occurs at the body temperature whereas combustion takes place at a high ignition temperature. Fuel for oxidation reaction in respiration is food whereas fuel for oxidation reaction in combustion is usually hydrocarbons. During respiration, the oxidation reaction is always complete and the products formed are carbon dioxide, water and energy. On the other hand, the oxidation reaction may not be complete and the reaction products may cause pollution due to the presence of carbon monoxide and  unburnt carbon particles. 

During respiration, charring of sugar doesn’t occur as it takes place inside body cells whereas in combustion the sugar is melted, chars and then burns to produce flame. 

The energy is released in the form of ATP and heat in respiration while the energy is released in the form of heat in combustion.

  1. Survival
  2. Maintenance of Temperature
  3. Excretion
  4. Acid-Base Balance
  5. Intermediates
  6. Back flow of blood and Lymph
  7. Exchange of Gases

Related Links:

  1. Comparison between Aerobic and Anaerobic Respiration
  2. Comparisons and Differences between Respiration in Plant and Animals
  3. Comparisons and Differences between Breathing and Respiration

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