Aerobic respiration requires oxygen and produces more energy (ATP) compared to anaerobic respiration, which occurs without oxygen and produces less energy. Aerobic respiration breaks down glucose completely, releasing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts, while anaerobic respiration produces lactic acid or ethanol as byproducts, depending on the organism.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Aerobic Respiration:
Requires oxygen: Oxygen acts as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain.
More efficient: Produces significantly more ATP (around 36-38) compared to anaerobic respiration.
Complete glucose breakdown: Glucose is broken down completely into carbon dioxide and water.
Byproducts: Carbon dioxide and water.
Common in: Most organisms, including humans and other animals.
Anaerobic Respiration:
Occurs without oxygen: Oxygen is not required for the process.
Less efficient: Produces less ATP (2 net ATP) compared to aerobic respiration.
Incomplete glucose breakdown: Glucose is only partially broken down.
Byproducts: Lactic acid (in animals) or ethanol and carbon dioxide (in yeast).
Examples: Muscle fatigue during intense exercise in humans, fermentation in yeast.