Organisms obtaining energy

Question 1

What produces energy in all organisms and what do we use it for?

Answer 1

Energy is produced by respiration for movement, synthesis of large molecules (proteins from amino acids etc) and active transport among other things.

Question 2

What is respiration with oxygen called?

Answer 2

Aerobic respiration takes place in animal and plant cells when sufficient oxygen is present and produces large amounts of energy.
C6H12O6 + 6O2 -> 6CO2 + 6H20

Question 3

What is respiration with a lack or absence oxygen called?

Answer 3

Anaerobic respiration occurs in animals, plants and some microbes when there is low or no oxygen and produces significantly less energy.
glucose -> lactic acid

Question 4

When does anaerobic respiration occur?

Answer 4

When plant roots are waterlogged, bacteria in puncture wounds and humans during vigorous exercise.

Question 5

How much energy is released with and without oxygen?

Answer 5

Aerobic respiration produces 36-38 ATPs whereas anaerobic respiration produces anywhere from 36-2 ATPs.

Question 6

What does a typical animal and mircobial cell structure contain?

Answer 6

Nucleus, cytoplasm, cell membrane, mitochondria (animal and yeast), cell wall (not animal), circular DNA molecule (bacterial cells)

Question 7

Which structures have functions involved in respiration?

Answer 7

Mitochondria contain enzymes for aerobic respiration.
Cell membrane allows gasses and water to pass in and out.
Nucleus or circular DNA contains genetic code for making enzymes used in respiration.
Cytoplasm where enzymes for anaerobic respiration are made.

Question 8

What is fermentation?

Answer 8

Fermentation is another form of anaerobic respiration used by some microbes.
glucose -> ethanol + carbon dioxide + energy.
Ethanol is a useful product as its important in producing alcoholic drinks and bread. It is also important in biogas generation.