Oxygen (O2) is a colorless, odorless gas that's essential for most forms of life because it's used in the process of respiration to produce energy.
Think of oxygen like the battery in your smartphone. Without it, your phone can't function - just as without oxygen, our cells can't produce the energy they need to keep us alive.
Respiration: The process by which cells break down simple food molecules such as glucose and release the energy they contain. Oxygen is crucial for this process.
Oxidation: A chemical reaction involving the loss of electrons or an increase in oxidation state. Oxygen often plays a role in these reactions.
Atmosphere: The envelope of gases surrounding Earth or another planet. Oxygen makes up about 21% of Earth's atmosphere.
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