Question 1

What is aerobic respiration and why is it important in animals?

Accepted Answer

Aerobic respiration is a biological process in which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy, carbon dioxide, and water. This process is crucial for animals as it provides the energy required for various cellular activities and bodily functions. In the context of the Edexcel GCSE Combined Science curriculum, understanding aerobic respiration helps explain how energy is exchanged and transported within animal bodies.

Question 2

How does aerobic respiration differ from anaerobic respiration?

Accepted Answer

Aerobic respiration requires oxygen to produce energy, while anaerobic respiration does not. In aerobic respiration, glucose is fully broken down into carbon dioxide and water, releasing a significant amount of energy. In contrast, anaerobic respiration results in the partial breakdown of glucose, producing less energy and byproducts like lactic acid in animals. This distinction is important in the Edexcel GCSE Combined Science syllabus, particularly when discussing energy exchange and transport in animals.

Question 3

What is the chemical equation for aerobic respiration?

Accepted Answer

The chemical equation for aerobic respiration is: C6H12O6 (glucose) + 6O2 (oxygen) → 6CO2 (carbon dioxide) + 6H2O (water) + energy (ATP). This equation summarizes the process by which glucose and oxygen are converted into energy, carbon dioxide, and water, a key concept in the Edexcel GCSE Combined Science curriculum under the topic of Exchange and Transport in Animals.

Question 4

Where in the cell does aerobic respiration occur?

Accepted Answer

Aerobic respiration primarily takes place in the mitochondria of cells. These organelles are often referred to as the 'powerhouses' of the cell because they generate most of the cell's supply of ATP, which is used as a source of chemical energy. This is a fundamental concept in the Edexcel GCSE Combined Science course, particularly when studying cellular processes and energy transport.

Question 5

Why is oxygen essential for aerobic respiration?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen is essential for aerobic respiration because it acts as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain, a series of reactions that produce ATP. Without oxygen, the electron transport chain cannot function, and cells must rely on less efficient anaerobic processes for energy. This concept is crucial in the Edexcel GCSE Combined Science curriculum, especially when discussing how energy is exchanged and transported in animals.

Aerobic Respiration

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