Respiration Flashcards
Why is respiration important?
Respiration releases energy from food and this energy is trapped in a molecule call ATP. ATP can then be used to provide the energy for many different processes in living organisms.
The symbol equation for aerobic is:
C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O
When does the body start using anerobic respiration?
During exercise, despite an increase in breathing rate and heart rate, the muscles often do not receive sufficient oxygen. They start to use anaerobic respiration in addition to aerobic respiration.
The word equation for anaerobic respiration is:
Glucose → Lactic Acid (+ Energy)
Main disadvantages of anaerobic respiration.
- The lactic acid that is made by anaerobic respiration builds up in the muscles, causing pain and fatigue.
- Anaerobic respiration releases less energy per glucose molecule than aerobic respiration.
Oxygen debt
The incomplete breakdown of glucose resulting in the build-up of lactic acid is called the oxygen debt.
During recovery the breathing rate and heart rate stay high so that:
- Rapid blood flow can carry lactic acid away to the liver.
- Extra oxygen can be supplied, enabling the liver to break down the lactic acid.
It is possible to set up different experiments to measure the rate of respiration. Two ways to do this involve:
- Measuring how much oxygen is used up faster - the faster it is consumed, the faster the respiration rate.
- The rate at which carbon dioxide is made.
Equation for the respiratory quotient
RQ = Carbon Dioxiode Used/Oxygen Used
What is the metabolic rate?
The metabolic rate is described as the sum of all the reactions that are occurring in the body. If the metabolic rate is high, more oxygen is needed, as aerobic respiration is faster.
How can respiration rate be affected?
Changes in temperature and pH can also change the respiration rate because they affect enzymes, and respiration is controlled by enzymes.
