The equation that describes the process of turning food into energy is actually a series of chemical reactions called cellular respiration. It's not a single equation, but we can summarize it as follows:

C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O + Energy (ATP)

Where:

* C6H12O6 represents glucose, a simple sugar that's the primary source of energy from food.

* O2 represents oxygen, which is inhaled and used in the process.

* 6CO2 represents carbon dioxide, which is a waste product of the reaction and exhaled.

* 6H2O represents water, another waste product of the reaction.

* Energy (ATP) represents adenosine triphosphate, the molecule that stores and releases energy for cellular processes.

This equation is a simplification, as cellular respiration involves many steps and intermediates. However, it captures the essence of the process, where glucose is broken down in the presence of oxygen to produce energy in the form of ATP, along with carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.