Aerobic and Anaerobic Respiration

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to aerobic and anaerobic respiration, including definitions, processes, and differences.

What is aerobic respiration?

An exothermic reaction in which glucose reacts with oxygen to release energy that can be used by cells.

What are the equations for aerobic respiration (word and symbol)?

Glucose + oxygen → carbon dioxide + water (+energy) C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O (+energy)

Why do organisms require the energy released by respiration?

For the synthesis of larger molecules, muscle contraction, maintenance of body temperature, and active transport.

What is anaerobic respiration?

An exothermic reaction in which glucose is broken down to release energy in the absence of oxygen.

Why is anaerobic respiration less efficient than aerobic respiration?

Glucose is not completely broken down, so less energy is transferred.

Why can anaerobic respiration lead to muscle fatigue?

Lactic acid builds up in muscles, preventing efficient contraction.

What is an oxygen debt?

The amount of oxygen needed to convert lactic acid back into glucose after anaerobic respiration.

What are the differences between aerobic and anaerobic respiration?

Aerobic requires oxygen; anaerobic does not. Aerobic produces CO2 and water; anaerobic produces lactic acid or ethanol + CO2. Aerobic transfers a greater amount of energy.

What changes take place when muscular activity increases in the body?

Heart rate increases and arteries dilate to increase the flow of oxygenated blood to muscles; breathing rate increases and breathing is deeper to enhance gaseous exchange; stored glycogen is converted back into glucose.

How is lactic acid transported away from the muscles?

Blood flow through the muscles transports lactic acid to the liver, where it is oxidized back to glucose.

How do cells use the energy transferred by respiration?

To continuously carry out enzyme-controlled processes which lead to the synthesis of new molecules.

What is the process by which glucose is turned into starch or glycogen?

Metabolic reaction.

What substances can glycerol and fatty acids be converted into?

Lipids.

How can glucose and nitrate ions be utilized in cells?

They can be converted into amino acids.

What is photosynthesis?

The process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose.

What is the purpose of respiration?

To release energy from glucose for use by the cell.

What is produced as a result of anaerobic respiration in muscle cells?

Lactic acid.

Why do cells undergo anaerobic respiration?

To generate energy when oxygen is scarce.

What contributes to a feeling of fatigue during intense exercise?

Accumulation of lactic acid due to anaerobic respiration.

What happens to the body’s oxygen demand during vigorous exercise?

It increases.

What is glycogen?

A stored form of glucose in animals.

What process converts glycogen back into glucose?

Glycogenolysis.

Why is oxygen debt important in recovery after exercise?

It indicates how much oxygen is needed to convert lactic acid back to glucose.

What role does ATP play in cellular processes?

It acts as the energy currency of the cell.

What are the end products of anaerobic respiration in yeast?

Ethanol and carbon dioxide.

What is the primary energy source for cellular respiration?

Glucose.

What type of reaction is respiration classified as?

Exothermic reaction.

What does aerobic respiration require that anaerobic respiration does not?

Oxygen.

What do cells do with the energy released during respiration?

They use it for various metabolic processes.

What is the difference in energy yield between aerobic and anaerobic respiration?

Aerobic respiration yields more energy.

How is lactic acid built up in muscles during exercise?

Through anaerobic respiration when oxygen levels are low.

What is respiration's role in metabolism?

It provides the energy required for metabolic reactions.

What types of molecules can glucose be converted into?

Starch, glycogen, cellulose, and other organic molecules.

How does muscle tissue respond during exercise?

It requires more energy, thus increasing respiration rates.

What process occurs in the liver regarding lactic acid?

Lactic acid is oxidized back into glucose.

What is a key factor that influences the efficiency of respiration?

The availability of oxygen.

What is the ultimate purpose of respiration in living organisms?

To provide energy for growth, repair, and maintenance of cellular functions.