Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

What is aerobic respiration?

1. Form of cellular respiration which requires oxygen to generate energy

2. A process that occurs in the mitochondria without oxygen

3. A type of fermentation in muscle cells

4. A method of energy production in plants during photosynthesis

The correct answer is: Form of cellular respiration which requires oxygen to generate energy

Aerobic respiration is a form of cellular respiration that requires oxygen to generate energy. This process takes place primarily in the mitochondria of cells and involves the complete oxidation of glucose or other organic molecules to produce carbon dioxide, water, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the energy currency of the cell. The presence of oxygen is crucial because it acts as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain, allowing the cell to efficiently produce a significant amount of energy. In contrast, other processes mentioned in the incorrect choices do not rely on oxygen or involve different biological functions. For instance, processes that occur without oxygen are identified as anaerobic respiration or fermentation, and that is not what aerobic respiration entails. Additionally, fermentation specifically refers to energy-producing processes in the absence of oxygen, such as lactic acid fermentation in muscle cells, which differs fundamentally from aerobic respiration. Lastly, energy production during photosynthesis is a separate process in plants that utilizes sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to synthesize glucose and does not relate directly to aerobic respiration. Understanding aerobic respiration is essential because it is a key process that supports cellular function and energy metabolism in aerobic organisms.