What is the significance of step-wise release of energy in respiration?

(N/A) The process of aerobic respiration is divided into four phases: glycolysis,$TCA$ cycle,$ETS$,and oxidative phosphorylation.
It is generally assumed that the process of respiration and the production of $ATP$ in each phase take place in a step-wise manner.
The product of one pathway forms the substrate for the next pathway.
Various molecules produced during respiration are involved in other biochemical processes.
The respiratory substrates enter and withdraw from the pathway based on necessity.
$ATP$ is utilized wherever required,and enzymatic rates are generally controlled.
Thus,the step-wise release of energy makes the system more efficient in extracting and storing energy.