The process by which energy is released from glucose is known as cellular respiration. This biological process involves breaking down glucose to produce ATP, the energy currency of cells. Cellular respiration occurs in several stages, including glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain. Through these stages, glucose is oxidized, leading to the formation of water and carbon dioxide as by-products while generating ATP. This process is vital for providing energy to sustain cellular activities and overall metabolic functions within living organisms, therefore being crucial for life itself.