The term for the metabolic process that breaks down glucose is called glycolysis. This process occurs in the cytoplasm of cells and involves a series of enzymatic reactions that convert one molecule of glucose into two molecules of pyruvate, along with the production of a small amount of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Glycolysis is the first step in both aerobic and anaerobic respiration, providing energy and intermediates for further metabolic pathways. Through this process, cells can efficiently harness energy from carbohydrates, making glycolysis crucial for cellular respiration and energy production.