Respiration Flashcards
Respiration
The process by which energy is released from food in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate)
Aerobic Respiration
(In the presence of oxygen) - the complete oxidation (breakdown) of food to release energy (kj). Takes place in the mitochondria of the cell. Much more energy is released.
Anaerobic Respiration
(In the absence of oxygen) - the incomplete oxidation of food to release a small amount of energy. This occurs in the cytoplasm of the cell. This differs for plants and animals. Much less energy is released because breakdown of glucose is incomplete. Produces an oxygen debt.
Combustion
The burning of compound in air (oxygen). One step process and releases all energy at once. Occurs outside cells.
Respiration
The oxidation (chemical addition of oxygen) to glucose in order to release energy. Process is several steps so energy is release by step by step process. Occurs in cells.
Oxygen Debt
During vigorous exercise, the body needs a lot more energy, and therefore has to get more oxygen into the muscle tissue where energy is needed. Therefore it has to breathe deeper and faster. The oxygen is then used to change the chemical energy in glucose to energy which the muscles are then able to use. At some point, a limit is reached – the body cannot breathe deeper or quick enough that aerobic energy cannot cope with the amount of energy needed.
Oxygen Debt
the amount of oxygen need to oxidise lactic acid to carbon dioxide and water.
Lung Capacity
the volume of air contained in the lungs at the end of maximum inspiration.
Vital Capacity
the volume of gas that can be expelled from the lungs from a position of full inspiration.
Tidal Volume
the amount of air breathed in and out during normal respiration.
Residual Volume
the amount of air left in the lungs after maximum exhalation.
Gas Exchange
happens in the alveoli. Oxygen moves from the lungs into the bloodstream.
Features of the Alveoli
thin walls (one cell thick)
large surface area
moist surface
many blood capillaries
