Anaerobic Respiration Flashcards

Questions and Answers

When does anaerobic respiration occur?

When muscle cells become short of oxygen and the heart cannot supply enough oxygen to the muscles fast enough.

What happens during anaerobic respiration?

Glucose is not broken down completely, produces lactic acid, releases a small amount of energy for cells.

What is the symbol equation for anaerobic respiration?

C6H12O6 > 2C3H6O3

How is muscle fatigue caused?

Using muscle fibers vigorously for a long time makes them stop contracting efficiently, leading to a buildup of lactic acid. Signup and view all the answers

What is an oxygen debt and how is it repaid?

The amount of oxygen needed to convert lactic acid back into CO2 and water, repaid by increased heart and breathing rate post-exercise. Signup and view all the answers

How can you tell how fit you are?

Fit individuals have a good supply of oxygen going to muscles, while unfit individuals run short of oxygen sooner. Signup and view all the answers

How does anaerobic respiration occur in microorganisms?

Bacteria form yoghurt, and yeast produces glucose, ethanol, and carbon dioxide. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Anaerobic Respiration Overview

Occurs when muscle cells lack sufficient oxygen, commonly during intense exercise.
Happens without oxygen, leading to incomplete breakdown of glucose.

Processes During Anaerobic Respiration

Glucose is partially broken down, resulting in lactic acid production.
Releases a small amount of energy compared to aerobic respiration due to incomplete glucose breakdown.

Symbol Equation

The reaction for anaerobic respiration is represented by the equation: C6H12O6 > 2C3H6O3 (glucose converts to lactic acid).

Muscle Fatigue

Prolonged vigorous use of muscle fibers leads to inefficiency in contraction.
Accumulation of lactic acid contributes to feelings of fatigue in muscles.

Oxygen Debt

Refers to the amount of oxygen required to convert accumulated lactic acid back into carbon dioxide and water.
Post-exercise, heart and breathing rates increase to supply the necessary oxygen for repaying the oxygen debt; higher lactic acid results in a greater oxygen debt.

Fitness Levels

Good fitness indicates that the heart and lungs effectively supply oxygen to muscles.
Poor fitness results in muscles experiencing oxygen shortage sooner during physical activity.

Anaerobic Respiration in Microorganisms

Bacteria use anaerobic respiration for fermentation, producing yogurt.
Yeast ferments glucose into ethanol and carbon dioxide, commonly used in baking and brewing.

Description

This set of flashcards explores the key concepts of anaerobic respiration. Learn when it occurs, the process involved, and the outcomes of this energy-generating method that operates without oxygen. Ideal for biology students seeking to solidify their understanding of cellular respiration.