NCEA Level 2 Biology - Cellular Respiration in the Cheetah

Vocabulary flashcards covering aerobic and anaerobic respiration, equations, mitochondrial structure, and energy production in cheetahs based on NCEA Level 2 Biology material.

Acinonyx jubatus

The scientific name for the cheetah, the fastest land animal capable of reaching speeds of up to $112\,km/h$ in short bursts to catch prey.

Anaerobic respiration

Process occurring in the cytoplasm of cheetah cells when oxygen is scarce; breaks down glucose into lactic acid to produce a small amount of ATP quickly but inefficiently.

Aerobic respiration

Process occurring in the mitochondria of cheetah cells when oxygen is available; involves complete breakdown of glucose into carbon dioxide and water to efficiently produce a large amount of ATP.

Aerobic respiration symbol equation

$$C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \rightarrow 6CO_2 + 6H_2O\text{ (+ ATP)}$$

Aerobic respiration word equation

$$\text{Glucose} + \text{oxygen} \rightarrow \text{carbon dioxide} + \text{water}\text{ (+ ATP)}$$

Cytoplasm

The location in animal cells where anaerobic respiration (glycolysis) occurs.

Mitochondria

The cellular organelles where aerobic respiration takes place when oxygen is available.

Matrix

The internal fluid space of a mitochondrion where processes such as the Kreb's cycle occur.

Crista

An inner fold of the mitochondrial membrane.

Outer membrane

The outermost membrane boundary enclosing the mitochondrion.

Inner membrane

The internal membrane layer of the mitochondrion situated inside the outer membrane.

Mitochondrion Structure Diagram

Diagram illustrating the major parts of a mitochondrion: 1. Matrix, 2. Outer membrane, 3. Inner membrane, 4. Crista.

Lactic acid

A product formed during anaerobic respiration that accumulates in muscles, causing fatigue and muscle cramps.

Cheetah anaerobic respiration duration

The high-intensity activity sustained by anaerobic respiration lasts for only about $20\text{--}30\text{ seconds}$ before the cheetah must rest to clear lactic acid and restore oxygen levels.

Advantages of anaerobic respiration

Allows the cheetah to generate ATP quickly for short bursts of high-speed activity, crucial for catching prey.

Disadvantages of anaerobic respiration

Produces less ATP per glucose molecule and leads to lactic acid build-up, causing fatigue.

Advantages of aerobic respiration

Provides a more efficient and sustainable way to produce ATP for longer periods of activity and recovery.

Disadvantages of aerobic respiration

Requires a continuous supply of oxygen, which may not be available during intense activity.