Leaving Cert Biology Respiration: Explain briefly what is meant by

Question

Explain briefly what is meant by respiration.

Respiration is a biochemical process in which cells convert nutrients, primarily glucose, into energy. This energy is essential for various cellular activities and is produced through chemical reactions that involve the oxidation of substrates. The fundamental equation for aerobic respiration can be summarized as:

$$	ext{glucose} + 	ext{oxygen} ightarrow 	ext{carbon dioxide} + 	ext{water} + 	ext{energy}$$

Distinguish between aerobic and anaerobic respiration.

Aerobic respiration requires oxygen and takes place in the mitochondria of the cells, producing carbon dioxide, water, and a large amount of energy (ATP). Conversely, anaerobic respiration occurs in the absence of oxygen and can take place in the cytoplasm, yielding less energy and producing by-products such as lactic acid in animals or alcohol and carbon dioxide in yeast.

Copy the table below into your answer book and complete the final column.

| Type of respiration             | Energy Source | End products                |
|----------------------------------|---------------|------------------------------|
| Aerobic respiration               | Glucose       |                              |
| Anaerobic respiration in muscle   | Glucose       |                              |
| Anaerobic respiration in yeast     | Glucose       |                              |

In stage 1 of respiration, glucose is partly broken down. Where in the cell does this happen?

The process occurs in the cytoplasm or cytosol of the cell.

Name the cell component shown in the diagram in which stage 2 of respiration takes place.

Stage 2 of respiration occurs in the mitochondria.

Which stage of respiration releases more energy?

Aerobic respiration releases more energy compared to anaerobic respiration, due to the complete oxidation of glucose.

Draw a labelled diagram of the apparatus in which you used yeast to produce alcohol.

The diagram should illustrate a glass container utilized in the anaerobic method for fermentation.

The water that you used in the apparatus was previously boiled and cooled. Why was this?

This was to remove oxygen or air to prevent yeast death and ensure anaerobic conditions for fermentation.

In your investigation it was necessary to exclude air. How was this done?

This was achieved by utilizing a layer of oil over the fermentation trap to create an anaerobic environment.

Describe briefly a test to show that alcohol had been produced.

To test for alcohol, one can use 'reagent' such as a solution that changes color in the presence of alcohol or heat conditions to show the by-products of fermentation.

Explain briefly what is meant by respiration - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 12 - 2007

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain briefly what is meant by respiration - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 12 - 2007