Anaerobic Respiration - Respiration Without Oxygen
- Anaerobic respiration does not require oxygen and is defined as the chemical reactions in cells that break down nutrient molecules to release energy without using oxygen
- It is the incomplete breakdown of glucose and releases a relatively small amount of energy (compared to aerobic respiration) for use in cell processes
- It produces different breakdown products depending on the type of organism it is taking place in
- You need to know the equations for anaerobic respiration in humans (animals) and in the microorganism yeast
Anaerobic Respiration in Animals
- Anaerobic respiration mainly takes place in muscle cells during vigorous exercise
- When we exercise vigorously, our muscles have a higher demand for energy than when we are resting or exercising normally
- Our hearts/lungs can only deliver a finite amount of oxygen to our muscle cells for aerobic respiration
- In this instance, as much glucose as possible is broken down with oxygen, and some glucose is broken down without it, producing lactic acid instead
- There is still energy stored within the bonds of lactic acid molecules that the cell could use; for this reason, less energy is released when glucose is broken down anaerobically
Word equation for anaerobic respiration in animals
Anaerobic Respiration in Yeast
- We take advantage of the products of anaerobic respiration in yeast by using it in bread making, where
- The carbon dioxide produced causes the dough to rise
- And in brewing, where
- The ethanol produced gives the beer its alcoholic nature
- The carbon dioxide produced gives beer its fizz
Word equation for anaerobic respiration in yeast
The Balanced Chemical Equation for Anaerobic Respiration in Yeast
Balanced equation for anaerobic respiration in yeast
Comparing Types of Respiration Table
Aerobic | Anaerobic | |
Oxygen | Needed | Not needed |
Glucose breakdown | Complete | Incomplete |
Products | Carbon dioxide and water |
Animal cells: lactic acid |
Amount of energy released |
A lot |
A little |