Compare the by-products of TWO different energy systems. - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 22 - 2024 - Paper 1

The lactic acid energy system primarily produces lactic acid as a by-product, which can accumulate in the muscles and contribute to fatigue. In contrast, the aerobic energy system produces water and carbon dioxide as by-products. Lactic acid is removed from the muscles and transported into the bloodstream, whereas water is lost through perspiration, and carbon dioxide is expelled through breathing.

The main difference between these two systems is their efficiency and the type of by-products produced. The lactic acid system operates anaerobically and may lead to muscle fatigue due to lactic acid accumulation, while the aerobic system is more sustainable over longer periods and results in less fatigue since its by-products are water and carbon dioxide, which are easily expelled from the body.