OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Prepare for the OCR GCSE Biology Exam with our comprehensive study resources. Practice with quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations to enhance your understanding. Ace your exam and secure your academic success!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What is the word equation for anaerobic respiration in animals?

  1. Glucose ---> Ethanol + Carbon Dioxide

  2. Glucose ---> Lactic Acid + Energy

  3. Glucose + Oxygen ---> Carbon Dioxide + Water

  4. Ethanol + Carbon Dioxide ---> Glucose

The correct answer is: Glucose ---> Lactic Acid + Energy

The word equation for anaerobic respiration in animals is accurately represented by the transformation of glucose into lactic acid and energy. In an anaerobic environment, animals, including humans, utilize glucose for energy production when oxygen is limited. Instead of undergoing aerobic respiration, which requires oxygen and produces carbon dioxide and water, anaerobic conditions lead to the conversion of glucose into lactic acid. This process is particularly relevant during intense exercise when oxygen levels may not meet the demands of muscle cells for energy. The production of lactic acid can accumulate in muscles, leading to fatigue and a burning sensation. Eventually, once oxygen becomes available again, lactic acid can be converted back to glucose in a process that occurs primarily in the liver. This emphasizes the importance of anaerobic respiration in generating immediate energy during short bursts of activity when oxygen supply is compromised.