What is the difference between aerobic and anaerobic respiration?

Aerobic respiration requires oxygen, while anaerobic respiration does not.

Aerobic respiration is the process by which cells use oxygen to break down glucose and produce energy in the form of ATP. This process occurs in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells and involves a series of complex reactions, including glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. The end result is the production of 36-38 ATP molecules per glucose molecule.

Anaerobic respiration, on the other hand, does not require oxygen and is used by some organisms when oxygen is not available. This process occurs in the cytoplasm of cells and involves the breakdown of glucose into lactic acid or ethanol and carbon dioxide. Anaerobic respiration produces only 2 ATP molecules per glucose molecule, making it less efficient than aerobic respiration.

While aerobic respiration is the preferred method of energy production for most organisms, anaerobic respiration can be useful in certain situations. For example, some bacteria and fungi are able to survive in oxygen-deprived environments using anaerobic respiration. Additionally, humans can use anaerobic respiration during intense exercise when the body is unable to supply enough oxygen to the muscles. However, this process also produces lactic acid, which can cause muscle fatigue and soreness.