Write down the difference between aerobic respiration and anaerobic respiration in humans, and explain the process and elimination of the 'oxygen debt' . (6 marks)

Aerobic respiration requires oxygen, anaerobic respiration does not.

In aerobic respiration glucose and oxygen react together in cells to produce carbon dioxide and water and energy. In particular this occurs in mitochondria of cells.

In anaerobic respiration glucose is broken down incompletely to produce lactic acid and energy relatively quickly. In particular this occurs in the cytoplasm of cells.

Oxygen debt is the additional oxygen that must be taken into the body after exercise, to restore all systems to their normal states by oxidising the lactic acid.

JM
Answered by Jas M. Biology tutor

13122 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

When plant cells are placed in salt solution their appearance is different to when they are placed in distilled water. Explain these changes.


Describe the process of breathing.


A scientist is researching the effect of an energy drink on a group of twenty men. State two characteristics of the sample which may influence the results.


What is the general structure of an animal cell?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning