What is the purpose of cellular respiration?

The purpose of cellular respiration is to generate ATP molecules in order to fuel other reactions in the body. Cellular respiration converts the energy stored in the chemical bonds of glucose to energy that is usable for the cell. ATP is especially important for energetically unfavorable reactions that would not be able to occur without a source of energy. The purpose of cellular respiration is to also release carbon dioxide and water as waste products. This occurs so the process of respiration can repeat itself to continue fueling cells with the energy necessary for their functions.