What is the difference between anaerobic respiration and aerobic respiration?

Aerobic respiration uses oxygen to generate energy, while anaerobic respiration happens without using oxygen. Aerobic respiration produces carbon dioxide, water and ATP (energy) from glucose and oxygen. Anaerobic respiration produces lactic acid and ATP (energy) from glucose in animals. In plants anaerobic respiration produces ethanol, carbon dioxide and ATP (energy) from glucose. Aerobic respiration releases large amounts of energy. Anaerobic respiration releases small amounts of energy quickly.

AM
Answered by Anna M. Biology tutor

6546 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do vaccinations work? Why don't they cause disease?


Explain what is meant by 'homeostasis' and give an example of this process in the human body.


What are the three types of neurones in the human nervous system?


c) What is the medical treatment of patients with kidney failure to remove urine and control levels of sodium and glucose in the blood?


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