Anaerobic respiration is a type of cellular respiration that occurs in the absence of oxygen. Here’s a detailed explanation:
1. Definition:
- Anaerobic respiration is a metabolic process where cells break down glucose to produce energy without using oxygen.
2. Occurrence:
- In some microorganisms like certain bacteria and yeasts
- In animal cells during intense physical activity when oxygen supply is insufficient
3. Process:
- Begins with glycolysis (like aerobic respiration)
- Does not use the Krebs cycle or electron transport chain
- Produces significantly less ATP than aerobic respiration
4. Types:
a) Lactic acid fermentation:
- Occurs in animal muscles during intense exercise
- End product is lactic acid
b) Alcoholic fermentation:
- Occurs in yeast and some bacteria
- End products are ethanol and carbon dioxide
5. Energy yield:
- Produces only 2 ATP molecules per glucose molecule (compared to 38 ATP in aerobic respiration)
6. Advantages:
- Allows energy production when oxygen is unavailable
- Faster than aerobic respiration, though less efficient
7. Disadvantages:
- Less efficient in energy production
- Can lead to the accumulation of lactic acid in muscles, causing fatigue
8. Applications:
- Used in food production (e.g., bread making, fermentation in wine and beer)
- Plays a role in certain industrial processes
9. In human physiology:
- Occurs during intense exercise when oxygen demand exceeds supply
- Can lead to oxygen debt, which is repaid during recovery