Cellular Respiration and Energy Production

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and processes related to cellular respiration and its role in energy production.

What is cellular respiration?

The process that releases energy by breaking down sugars and other food molecules in the presence of oxygen.

Why do plants undergo cellular respiration?

Even though plants make their own food, they need to undergo cellular respiration to unlock energy for various cellular processes.

What is the equation for cellular respiration involving glucose and oxygen?

Glucose combined with 6 molecules of oxygen produces 6 molecules of carbon dioxide, 6 molecules of water, and energy.

How are cellular respiration and photosynthesis related?

They are complementary processes; one produces oxygen and glucose while the other uses them.

What are the byproducts of cellular respiration?

Water and carbon dioxide are byproducts of the reaction.

What happens when we breathe in relation to cellular respiration?

We inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide.

What is glycolysis?

The first stage of cellular respiration where one glucose molecule is converted into two molecules of pyruvic acid.

Does glycolysis require oxygen?

No, glycolysis does not require oxygen.

What is the Krebs Cycle?

The second stage of cellular respiration where pyruvic acid is broken down into carbon dioxide.

What is the electron transport chain?

The final stage of cellular respiration where ATP is produced from ADP.

What is ATP?

ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, is the cell's primary energy currency.

What occurs if there is no oxygen present after glycolysis?

Fermentation occurs when there is no oxygen after glycolysis.

What is alcoholic fermentation?

A type of fermentation that produces alcohol and carbon dioxide in the absence of oxygen.

What is lactic acid fermentation?

A type of fermentation that occurs in muscles when oxygen is insufficient for glucose breakdown.

What happens to muscles during intense exercise?

Lactic acid accumulates in the muscles, leading to discomfort and fatigue.

How does physical activity influence breathing?

Physical activity increases the demand for oxygen, leading to heavier breathing.

What is the price of generating energy without oxygen?

The production of lactic acid occurs when generating energy without oxygen.

Why do athletes do more running in practice?

To condition their bodies to efficiently supply oxygen and manage lactic acid during competitions.

What is the role of oxygen during cellular respiration?

Oxygen is needed in the latter stages of cellular respiration to effectively produce energy.

What physiological adaptations occur with regular exercise?

The body becomes accustomed to the demands of exercise, improving its ability to supply oxygen.

How can lactic acid affect athletic performance?

Buildup of lactic acid can make muscles hurt and reduce performance during strenuous activity.

What is the significance of conditioning in sports?

Conditioning helps the body efficiently manage oxygen use and lactic acid buildup, enhancing performance.

What can happen if someone exercises intensely without proper conditioning?

They can experience fatigue and possibly injury due to inadequate oxygen supply.

What is the relationship between glucose and energy in cellular respiration?

Glucose is broken down to release energy that cells use for various functions.

Why is it important to understand cellular respiration?

Understanding cellular respiration helps explain how all cells generate energy necessary for life processes.

What happens to carbon dioxide produced during cellular respiration?

Carbon dioxide is exhaled into the atmosphere.