The chemical equation for cellular respiration is \( C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O \), demonstrating that one glucose molecule (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)) and six oxygen molecules (\(6O_2\)) are converted into six carbon dioxide molecules (\(6CO_2\)) and six water molecules (\(6H_2O\)). This highlights how plants cycle matter by using carbon from the atmosphere (in the form of carbon dioxide) during photosynthesis to produce glucose, which is later broken down during cellular respiration, releasing carbon back into the atmosphere.
In one or two sentences, explain how the chemical equation for cellular respiration shows that plants cycle matter. Please include the numbers of molecules and atoms involved to support your explanation. Thank you
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