Humber Admissions Practice Test

What is the end product of anaerobic respiration?

1. Carbon dioxide and water

2. Alcohol or lactic acid

3. Glucose

4. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)

The correct answer is: Alcohol or lactic acid

The end product of anaerobic respiration is either alcohol or lactic acid, depending on the type of organism and the conditions under which the process occurs. In yeast and some types of bacteria, anaerobic respiration results in the production of ethanol and carbon dioxide, a process known as alcoholic fermentation. In humans and many other animals, the end product is lactic acid, which forms when the body undergoes anaerobic respiration during strenuous exercise when oxygen is scarce. This distinction is important, as anaerobic respiration occurs in the absence of oxygen and leads to these different metabolic byproducts. It is an essential pathway for energy production when the demand for energy exceeds the oxygen supply, allowing organisms to continue functioning even under anaerobic conditions. The other options listed do not accurately reflect the specific resultant compounds produced during anaerobic respiration.