22 Respiration

Teach ing notes

The following have been
taught in S2 Science:

Food like corn not only provides energy for the body, the sugar in the corn can
undergo fermentation (~M) to produce an alcohol that can be used as a fuel to
power vehicles. This Ibiofuel' (~~~~4) releases less air pollutants upon burning and
is being developed in many countries.

respiration is a chemical
process that releases
energy from food inside
cells
comparison between
burning and respiration

NOT required
in Com. Sci.

22.1 Basic concepts of respiration

In Ch 21, we learnt that heterotrophs depend on plants for food. Food
provides energy for metabolic activities. However, cells cannot use
the chemical energy stored in food directly. The energy has to be first
released and converted into usable forms .

Chemical E

Respiration
---------------------> ATP

m What is respiration?
A. Burning Glucose
---> Flame !!!!!!

When a piece of food is burnt, it reacts with oxygen. This process is

called oxidation (~1t) . As the food burns, it is broken down and the
chemical energy stored in it is released as heat and light quickly in one
single step (Fig 22.3). Organisms do not release energy from food by
burning because burning releases a large amount of heat at one time,
which will kill the cells. Instead, they undergo respiration (Ufq~1'Fm ).
Respiration is the process by which organisms release energy from food
through the controlled oxidative breakdown of food. Glucose is the
most common substrate for respiration (Fig 22.4).
During respiration, glucose is broken down into carbon dioxide and
water through a series of chemical reactions in a gradual manner.
The reactions are controlled by enzymes. In each reaction, chemical
energy is released and stored in the energy carrier ATP, while some is
lost as heat. The overall equation for respiration is

Fig 22.1 Corn

enzymes
glucose + oxygen - - - -... carbon dioxide + water + energy (ATP)

Fig 22.2 A biofuel station

chemical Energy

02~

~C02

~H20

D How does our body obtain energy from the food we eat?
. 7
II How is alcohol produced from corn by fermentation.
.'
. ' ade by photosynthesis. What is the relationship
sugar corn IS m
11 The
h .
between respiration and photosynt eSls.

02~

glucose
glucose -------(in the cell)

fast and one-step reaction

~ I ATP I
~C02

~H20

gradual and many-step reaction

In

Fig 22.3 Burning

Fig 22.4 Respiration

22- 3

II

22

Organisms and Environment

NOT required

in Com. Sci.

Resp
ATP <------------- ADP + Pi

m What is the role of ATP?

m What are the types of respiration?

During respiration, the energy released is used to form ATP (adenosine

t riphosphate) by combining a phosphate group to ADP (adenosine
diphosphate) . This process is called phosphorylation. Energy is stored
in ATP (Fig 22.S). Many ATP molecules can be formed by the respiration
of one glucose molecule. In this way, the large amount of energy stored
in glucose is packaged into a smaller amount in each ATP molecule.
ATP can be readily broken down into AD P to supply the stored energy
to cells.

Respiration takes place in all living cells all the time. It can take
place with or without oxygen. Respiration that requires oxygen is
called aerobic respiration (~i(~~'&) . In aerobic respiration, glucose
is completely broken down into carbon dioxide and water. A large
amount of energy is released .

In summary, ATP acts as an energy carrier that transfers the energy

released by respiration to metabolic activities that requ ire energy to take
place, such as:
~t------------,
ATP acts as an energy
carrier in all organisms.
It cannot be transported
from cell to cell and is
used in the cell in which it
is made.

Respiration

A. Aerobic Resp

cell division

muscle contraction

transmission of nerve impulses

synthesis of biomolecules, e.g. synthesis of proteins from amino acids

absorption of food molecules in the gut and absorption of minerals

by the roots of plants by active transport

in Com. Sci.

Glucose + oxygen --------> CO2 + H2O + 38 ATP

B. Anaerobic Resp
- (1) Muscle cell
(2) Germinating seed
(3) Fermentation of Yeast

Respiration that does not require oxygen is called anaerobic respiration

(iIlR:i(~~'& ) . In anaerobic respiration, glucose is only partly broken down.
Much less energy is released and the products are also different from
aerobic respiration (you will learn more in Sections 22.3 and 22.4).

Glucose --------> CO2 + H2O + 2 ATP

,"e.,~

NOT required

lealining;

What is respiration?
... Respiration is the process by which organisms release chemical energy
from food through the controlled oxidative breakdown of food .
2

What are the differences and similarities between burning and respiration?
Respiration

Burning
Similarities

ATP

Teach ing notes

Explain to 5s that ATP
temporarily stores energy
like a charged battery.
When ATP breaks down
into AD P, it supplies the
stored energy to cells.
When energy is supplied to
ADP , it can be 'recharged'
into ATP again .

breakdown

phosphorylation

(!iAM1t:)

An oxidative process

Oxygen is needed

~ Oxygen is usually needed

Carbon dioxide and water are

produced

Carbon dioxide and water are

usually produced

A one-step reaction

A series of reactions

Takes place anywhere

~ Takes place only inside cells

No enzymes involved

Controlled by many enzymes

Fast and violent reaction

Slow and gradual reactions

~
Differences
~

releases energy that is

read ily usable to cells

stores energy released

from respiration

ADP + P

~ All stored energy is released at

Fig 22.5 ATP acts as an energy carrier

once
~

Other processes powered by ATP

Energy in ATP can be used for other purposes
in different organisms, e.g. producing light in
fireflies (~*:ft) for attracting mates or prey and
generating electricity in electric eels (~!i) for
hunting and self defence.

Energy is released in the forms of

heat and light

~ Stored energy is released

gradually
~ Energy released is used to form

ATP while some is lost as heat

What is the role of ATP in cellular metabolism?

... ATP acts as an energy carrier. When it breaks down into ADP and a
phosphate group, energy is released and is readily usable by cells for
metabolic activities.

Fig 22.6 A glowing firefly

22- 4

An oxidative process

What are the types of respiration?

... Aerobic respiration requires oxygen. Glucose is completely broken down
into carbon dioxide and water. A large amount of energy is released .
... Anaerobic respiration does not require oxygen. Glucose is partly broken
down. Much less energy is released and different products are formed .

22- 5

II

Which types of cells w

Organisms and Environment

**

NOT required

22.2 Site of respiration

in Com. Scr.

eili
.' 22.1
3D .model

(;) Teacher's DVD 3

3D model 22.1

Syllabus: ***

Sites of respiration
Cytoplasm and
mitochondrion

B. Krebs cycle

swimming for fertilization

Liver

C. Oxidative Phosphorylation

Adaptive features of a mitochondrion

22

Respiration

Most energy in food is released by the reactions which occur inside the
mitochondria. Therefore, active cells such as muscle cells (Fig 22.8), liver
cells and sperm contain a lot of mitochondria.

AL: 04(I)Q8a

Respiration involves a series of reactions. Some of the reactions occur in

the cytoplasm and some in the mitochondria.

A. glycolysis

mitochondria

1.

NOT required

in Com. Sci.

For muscle contraction

high Metabolism

A mitochondrion is bound by a double membrane (Fig 22.7). The outer

membrane controls the movement of substances into and out of the
mitochondrion. The
2. inner membrane is highly folded . This provides
a large surface area to pack more enzymes to catalyse the reactions of
respiration.
The space enclosed by the inner membrane is filled with a fluid called

3.the mitochondrial matrix. This matrix provides a fluid medium for

reactions to take place, and also contains enzymes for respiration.

Fig 22.8 Mitochondria (blue) in muscle cells (x3000)

outer membrane
inner membrane

) SBA CD
Assessment checklist 22.1

:
intermembrane space

Practical 22.1

Practical Workbook for SBA 3, p. 22- 1

Examination of the structure of mitochondria

DRAW Diagram

mitochondrial
matrix (jt)

Examine the photomicrograph or live cell image of a mitochondrion.

Identify various structures of the mitochondrion and draw a high power diagram.

folds (packed
with enzymes)

'f~~ lea fining

Where does respiration take place?
Some reactions of respiration occur in the cytoplasm and some in the
m itochond ria .

How is the structure of a mitochondrion adapted to respiration?

Structure
Highly folded inner
membrane

Adaptation to respiration
~

Provides a large surface area to pack more

enzymes that catalyse the reactions of
respiration

ETC-- Oxidative Phosphorylation

Mitochondrial matrix

(x58 000)

Contains enzymes for respiration

Provides a fluid medium for reactions to

take place

Krebs cycle

Fig 22.7 Structure of a mitochondrion

22- 6

22- 7

II

3. Production of NADH and ATP

Organ isms and Environment

NOT required

22.3 Aerobic respiration

in Com. Sci.

~~
, ~----------~
Glycolysis
In Greek, 'g/yco' means
'sugar', 'lysis' means 'spl it'.

Glycolysis

cytoplasm:

Pyruvate

glucose (6-C)

Glycolysis ( ~M M) is the first stage of aerobic respiration. It occurs in

the cytoplasm and does not require oxygen. It involves two main steps
(Fig 22.9):

Teach ing notes

The removal of a carbon
atom from a molecule in
the form of carbon dioxide
is called decarboxylation .
It is an important reaction
in many biochemical
processes, such as the
Krebs cycle and the
synthesis of fatty acids.
Remind Ss that the role
of coenzyme A is to carry
the acetyl group (from
pyruvate) to the 4-C
compound in Krebs cycle.
Only the acetyl group will
be oxidized but not the
coenzyme A.

1 breakdown of glucose

to triose phosphate

,n Com. Sc,.

(3ATP)

U
-----n
------.. .

2 pyruvate (3-C)

2 ATP

The two molecules of pyruvate still store most of the energy of glucose.
They will be further oxidized to release more energy in the subsequent
stages.

Glucose is first broken down into two molecules of triose phosphate.

During the process, two ATP are used. This shows that before energy is
released by respiration, energy is needed to initiate the reactions .

glucose (6-C)

2 NADH

2 ADP + 2 P

1 Breakdow n of glucose to triose phosphate

ext, each triose phosphate is oxidized to a 3-C organic compound

called pyruvate (pg~~ ~~t~). During the process, two ATP are formed
and triose phosphate loses hydrogen. The hydrogen is accepted by a
carrier molecule called AD (n icotinamide a denine d inucleotide) to form
NADH. NADH will act as a hydrogen donor (~ ~e ) in the final stage
of respiration to form more ATP.

NOT required

In summary, glycolysis is the breakdown of glucose into two molecules

of pyruvate with the production of two NADH and two ATP. Its overall
word equation is
2 NAD

2 Oxidation of triose phosphate to pyruvate

Respiration

As the breakdown of glucose into two triose phosphate uses two ATP
and the oxidation of the two triose phosphate forms four ATP, glycolysis
produces a net amount of two ATP .

AL : 05(1)02 , 07(11)07, 09(1)08

Aerobic respiration takes place in the presence of oxygen. It occurs in

three main stages: (a) glycolysis, (b) the Krebs cycle and (c) oxidative
phosphorylation. Each stage consists of a sequence of steps during which
energy in food is gradually released .
Glucose

22

Site: Matrix
Conversion of pyruvate to acetyl-CoA

Krebs cycle

Pyruvate formed in glycolysis is transported from the cytoplasm into the

mitochondrion where the Krebs cycle ( R: ~1s &fWJ !~) occurs. Pyruvate
does not enter the cycle directly, it is first converted to a compound
called acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA) ( ~ Mc ~lU~ A).
During the conversion, a carbon atom is removed from pyruvate and
released as carbon dioxide. The remaining 2-C compou nd loses
hydrogen which is accepted by NAD to form NADH. It then combines
with coenzyme A to form acetyl-CoA. For each molecule of glucose that
undergoes glycolysis, two molecules of acetyl-CoA are formed.
ADH

NAD

pyruvate (3-C) --)------)--~. acetyl-CoA (2-C)

CO 2

coenzyme A

2 triose phosphate (3-C)

e2 oxidation of triose
phosphate to pyruvate

2 pyruvate (3-C)

More about coenzyme A

A coenzyme is an organic non-protein molecule that associates w ith an enzyme
in catalys ing react ions. It usually works by donating or accepting certa in chem ical
groups.
Pyruvate combines w ith coenzyme A to form acetyl-CoA. Acetyl-CoA will donate its
2-C acetyl group to help catalyse the first step of the Krebs cycle.

Fig 22.9 Glycolysis

22- 8

22- 9

II

22

Organisms and Environment

NOT required

The Krebs cycle occurs in the mitochondrial matrix. It involves two

main steps (Fig 22.11):

NOT required
in Com. Sci.

~t-----The 6-C compound is a

tricarboxylic acid (.= ~M).
Therefore, the Krebs
cycle is also called the
tricarboxylic acid (TCA)
cycle.

in Com. Sci

pyruvate (3-C)

1 Combination of acetyl-CoA with 4-C compound

2C Acetyl-CoA combines with a 4-C compound already present in the

(not part of the

Krebs cycle)

mitochondrion to form a 6-C compound. Coenzyme A is regenerated. In

this way, coenzyme A carries the acetyl group formed from pyruvate into
the Krebs cycle.

coenzyme A

NAD
NADH

r co

acetyl-CoA (2-C)

eOA)

Teaching notes
The tricarboxylic acid is citric
acid ( t~M ) . Therefore,
the Krebs cycle is also called
the citric acid cycle.

Respiration

acetyl-CoA (2-C) + 4-C compound

2 Regeneration of 4-C compound

-----'---+.

6-C compound

combination of
acetyl-CoA with
4-C compound

+ release of CO2

The 6-C compound is then oxidized step by step to regenerate the

original 4-C compound. During the process, two carbon atoms are
removed and released as carbon dioxide. The 6-C compound also loses
hydrogen which is accepted by AD to form NADH. Another carrier
molecule called FAD (flavin adenine dinucleotide) also accepts hydrogen
to form F ADH. In addition, one ATP is formed.
2 CO 2
6-C compound ____

3 NAD

ADH

-. .!.)~____U
_

ADP + P ATP

____=------+.

FAD

4-C compound

Krebs cycle

6-C compound

2 regeneration of
4-C compound

FADH~

4-C compound

coenzyme A

FAD
3NAD
3NADH

FADH

ATP ADP+P

Fig 22.11 The Krebs cycle

3. Production of NADH, FADH and ATP

In each cycle, three NADH, one FADH and one ATP are formed from
one pyruvate molecule. Since each glucose molecule generates two
pyruvate molecules, a total of six NADH, two FADH and two ATP are
formed from one glucose molecule.

Discovery of the Krebs cycle

The Krebs cycle is named after scientist Sir Hans
Krebs who discovered how individual reactions are
linked to form the cyclic process. He won the Nobel
Prize in 1953 for this discovery. Learn more about

Energy stored in ATP formed in glycolysis and the Krebs cycle is readily
usable by the cell. The energy stored in NADH and FADH will be
released in the final stage of aerobic respiration.

his work at

httpJl nobelprize.orglnobel_prizeslmedicinellaureates

Fig 22.10 Sir Hans Krebs

(1900-1981)

22- 10

Teaching notes

m Oxidative phosphorylation

Remind Ss that
'phosphorylation ' means
addition of a phosphate
group to a molecule. This
process needs energy.

The final stage of aerobic respiration occurs on the inner membrane of

the mitochondrion. It is called oxidative phosphorylation (i\:1t;~M1t;)
because the energy for forming ATP by phosphorylation comes from
oxidation reactions. It involves two main steps (Fig 22.12):

22- 11

II

22

Organisms and Environment

NOT required

1 Regeneration of NAD and FAD

in Com. Sci.

Fig 22.13 shows the overall process of aerobic respiration. You can see
that carbon dioxide is released from the Krebs cycle, and oxygen is only
used in oxidative phosphorylation. However, without oxygen as the final
acceptor of hydrogen, the cell cannot regenerate NAD and FAD, and
both the Krebs cycle and oxidative phosphorylation cannot operate.

NADH and FADH formed in glycolysis and the Krebs cycle lose their
hydrogen and are oxidized to NAD and FAD respectively. The hydrogen
passes through a series of hydrogen carriers located in the inner
membrane and is finally accepted by oxygen to form water. In this
way, NAD and FAD are regenerated to accept hydrogen in glycolysis and
the Krebs cycle again.

The electron transport chain

as a process of oxidative
phosphorylation is not
required .

As the hydrogen from NADH and FADH passes from one carrier to
another, energy is released to form ATP. Most ATP formed by respiration
comes from oxidative phosphorylation, which can form about 34 ATP
for each molecule of glucose that undergoes glycolysis (see table below).
Number of hydrogen
donor formed

Stage

Number of ATP
formed

Glycolysis

2NADH

2x3=6

Pyruvate to acetyl-eoA

2NADH

2x3=6

6NADH

6 x 3 = 18

2FADH

2x2=4

Krebs cycle

Total:

Teaching notes
The equation on the right
shows that glucose is oxidized
to carbon dioxide (removal of
H) while oxygen is reduced to
water (addition of H).

in Com. Sci.

enzymes
6 O 2 ~-----.....)o 6 CO 2 +
oxygen

cytoplasm

carbon dioxide

water

energy

Glycolysis
glucose
2 ATP +-------l

Anaerobic
Resp

2 NADH

34ATP

+ 4 ATP = Total:38 ATP

NOT required

The overall equation of aerobic respiration is shown below. Glucose

is completely broken down into carbon dioxide and water. For each
molecule of glucose, about 38 ATP (two from glycolysis, two from the
Krebs cycle and 34 from oxidative phosphorylation) can be formed.
A mitochondrion can break down a lot of glucose simultaneously to
produce numerous ATP for maintaining cellular activities.

2 Fonnation of ATP

Teaching notes

Respiration

2 pyruvate

2 NADH

mitochondrion

2 CO2
The oxidation of each NADH can generate about three ATP wh ile that of FAD can generate
about two ATP.

2 acetyl-CoA

intermembrane - {
space

innmmembffine ~ ~~~~~~-~
~~
~~-f-~
~~~~
~~~~
~~~
~~-hY-d-ro-g-e-n~~~~~

1~~~~----'::::"-'--------~~~~--"=~~~~--'1
NADH

NAD

FADH

6NADH

carner

2ATP ...- --\

ADP + P ATP

FAD

2 FADH

+
mitochondrial
matrix

1 regeneration of NAD and FAD

Final e- donor

Krebs cycle

2 formation of ATP
34 ATP ......f - - - - - - - - - - - - - --IIOxidative

PhOSPhOrylation ~

H20

02 ---=t
Fig 22.12 Oxidative phosphorylation

22- 12

Fig 22.13 Summary of the process of aerobic respiration

Final e- acceptor
22- 13

II

Organisms and Environment

NOT required

In the following practicals, we will study aerobic respiration in some

organisms. Carbon dioxide is a product of aerobic respiration. We can
use hydrogen carbonate indicator (~~M~.et~~~J ) or lime water (E;i3( 7.K)
to test for its presence.
For CO2 Test

in Com. x i.

~ Teacher'S

~ SBACD

Practical 22.2

DVD 3

..

Respiration

Assessment checklist 22.3

Practical 22.3

NOT required

Practical Workbook for SBA 3, p.

in Com. xi.

22-6

@I,lIIMN Video 22.3 )

Investigation of carbon dioxide production in germinating seeds

) Teacher's DVD 3
Video 22.3

Seeds germinate when conditions are favourable. During germination, their respiration greatly
speeds up to release more energy to support growth.

Video 22.2

Assessment checklist 22 .2

..

22

) SBA CD

Practical Workbook for SBA 3, p. 22-3

@I,llldN Video 22.2 )

Hydrogencarbonate indicator can be used to detect an carbon dioxide produced by germinating

seeds. Its colour changes with the concentration of carbon dioxide.

Investigation of carbon dioxide production in a living mouse

Concentration of carbon dioxide

Carbon dioxide turns lime water milky. The air breathed out by a mouse is passed through
lime water to see whether the mouse has produced carbon dioxide or not.
1
2

Place a mouse on a glass plate and cover it with a bell jar. Smear the edge of the bell jar with
vaseline to make the bell jar airtight.

Colour of hydrogencarbonate indicator

> 0.03 %

Yellow

- 0.03 % (atmospheric concentration)

Red/orange

< 0.03 %

Purple

Set up the apparatus as shown. Note the colours of the solutions in flasks A, Band C.

Glucose + oxygen --------> CO2 + H2O + 38 ATP

Teaching notes

to suction pump

air in

-----+

Absorb
incoming
CO2
3

-----+

The mouse can

be replaced by
grasshoppers,
but it may require
a longer time to
obtain the results
and a number of
grasshoppers are
needed .

Set up the apparatus as shown. Leave the tubes for a few hours.

bell jar

soaked germinating ----:-:-~~~~_

moist cotton wool --1~W~-- boiled seeds
seeds (surface sterilized)
(surface sterilized)

Wear a pair of
thick gloves when
handling the mouse .

potassium
hydroxide
solution

lime water

(clear)
Sure no CO2 present
A

living mouse

lime water

wire gauze

Potassium
hydroxide solution
is corrosive. Avoid
contact with skin.

(milky)
CO2 from respiration
of mouse

Turn on the suction pump to draw a stream of air through the apparatus for 30 minutes.
Record any colour changes in the flasks.

Kill micro-organism
x resp from micro-org.
2

hydrogencarbonate
indicator
A

RED
No Resp

YELLOW -CO2 released by resp of germinating seed

Record any colour changes in the hydrogencarbonate indicator of tubes A and B.

Results and discussion

The hydrogencarbonate indicator in tube B remains red while that in tube A turns yellow after
a few hours. These results show that germinating seeds give out carbon dioxide.

Results and discussion

The potassium hydroxide solution in flask A does not change its colour. It absorbs carbon dioxide
in the air. This prevents carbon dioxide from entering the bell jar.
The lime water in flask B remains clear. This shows that the air entering the bell jar contains no
carbon dioxide.
The lime water in flask C turns milky after some time. This shows that carbon dioxide is present in
the air leaving the bell jar, which must have been given out by the Living mouse.

22- 14

Only about 40% of energy reIeased by respiration is stored in ATP, and

most energy is lost as heat. Therefore, an increase in the air temperature
of the surroundings of an organism can be taken as a sign of respiration .

22- 15

II

22

~ SBACD

Organisms and Environment

Assessment checklist 22.4

NOT required

in Com. Sci.

Practical 22.4

Practical Workbook for SBA 3, p. 22-8

NOT required

'fe~ lealinin~

t@'I.lii., Video 22.4 )

Investigation of heat production in a living mouse

in Com. S<i.

What happens during the different stages of aerobic respiration?

~ Teacher's DVD 3
Video 22.4

Set up the differential air thermometer as shown.

Teach ing notes

graph paper

clip

The mouse can be

replaced by grasshoppers
or sterilized germinating
seeds .

arm B

arm A

test tube - -+-----1

coloured liquid
in U-shaped
capillary t ube

insulator
cotton wool

Stage of
respiration

Mouse carry out resp

- release ATP as heat
- heat up air
- air expand
- increase air pressure in B
- Arm B fall
- Arm A raise up

Reactions involved

Net amount of
ATP formed/
glucose molecule

~ Glucose is split into two molecules of triose

Site of occurrence

Glycolysis

Cytoplasm

phosphate using energy from ATP

~ Triose phosphate is oxidized to pyruvate;

NADH and ATP are formed

Pyruvate to
acetyl-CoA

Mitochondrial matrix

Pyruvate is converted to acetyl-CoA; carbon

dioxide and NADH are formed

Krebs cycle

Mitochondrial matrix

Acetyl-CoA combines with a 4-C compound

to form a 6-C compound

The 6-( compound is oxidized step by step

to regenerate the 4-( compound; carbon
dioxide, NADH, FADH and ATP are formed

NADH and FADH lose hydrogen. They are

oxidized to regenerate NAD and FAD

Wear a pair of
thick gloves when
handling the mouse.
Oxidative
phosphorylation

Open the clips on both sides of the thermometer. Wait until the coloured liquid levels in arms
A and B become the same.

living mouse

Respiration

Inner membrane of
mitochondrion

34

~ The oxidation of NADH and FADH releases

same air pressure

energy to form ATP by phosphorylation

~ Hydrogen is finally accepted by oxygen to

Close the clips. Record any changes in the liq uid levels after 10 minutes.

form water

Results and discussion

At the end of the experiment, the liquid level in arm A rises and the liquid level in arm B falls. This
is because the mouse releases heat which warms up the air in the test tube on the side where it is.
The expansion of air inside the tube increases the pressure. This causes the liquid level in arm B to
fall. The results therefore show that a living mouse releases heat.
The clips are opened before the experiment starts to equalize the pressure on both sides of the
U-shaped capillary tube. The cotton wool is used as an insulator to prevent heat loss so that the
result is more easily observed.

Teaching notes
Suggested procedure for Practical 22.5 :
1

Set up the two vacuum flasks as

shown below. Note the temperature
of each vacuum flask at the start of
the practical.

During glycolysis, energy is released in the form of

Leave the set-ups undisturbed for a

day. Record any increase in
temperature in the vacuum flasks.

vacuum
~as k

~ Teacher's DVD 3

Practical 22.5

Practical Workbook for SBA 3, p. 22- 11

NADH

ATP, NADH and pyruvate

~I~rr- seeds
boiled

hermometer

Most ATP production

x y

Water formation

_ p. 12, 13
A

c==============:::=:::::===============~-~ Ql- 3 (p. 29)

22- 1 6

and w ater formation respectively?

(surface
sterilized)

t@'I.lii., Video 22.5 )

From Practical 22.4, we know that a living mouse produces heat when it carries out respiration. D o
germinating seeds produce heat during respiration as well?

The diagram below shows a mitochondrion in the cytoplasm.

In aerobic respiration, wh ich of the following
correctly shows the sites of most ATP production

Design an investigation of heat production in germinating seeds

Try to design and perform an investigation to find o ut the answer.

ATP and NADH

_ p.8

O2

Video 22.5

Assessment checklist 22.5

ATP

Aerobic

~ SBACD

Q16-19 (p. 32)

Q22 (p. 34)

22- 1 7

II
NOT required

in Com. Sci.

Organisms and Environment

. Pract ica I 22.6

Industrial applications of anaerobic respiration

~ Teacher's DVD 3

~ SBACD

Video 22.6

Assessment checklist 22 .6

Teaching notes

Practical Workbook for SBA 3, p. 22- 17

@l,llla, Video 22.6 )

Demonstration of anaerobic respiration in germinating seeds

Germinating seeds can carry out anaerobic respiration when there is no oxygen. It is shown by
removing oxygen from the set-up. The gas released is tested with hydrogencarbonate indicator.
The production of carbon dioxide in the absence of oxygen indicates the occurrence of anaerobic
respiration.

The details of the use of

alcoholic fermentation in food
processing will be discussed
in Bk E3, Ch 2 (::<) .

Put the seeds into a boiling tube and then place a piece of wire gauze. Fill the tube with paraffin
oil.

Invert the tube and insert it into a container of paraffin oil. Do not trap any air between the
seeds and the oil.

Respiration

m What are the applications of anaerobic

NOT required

in Com. Sci.

respiration?
Anaerobic respiration is widely used in industry. For example,
~

The brewing of beer makes use

of the alcohol formed when
yeast ferments the sugar in
barley (*~)

No O2

22

The brewing of wine makes

use of the alcohol formed
when yeast ferments the sugar
in grape juice

boiling tube

Fig 22.16 Beer

wire
gauze

~
soaked germinating
seeds (surface sterilized)

paraffin oil

Leave the tube for a few hours and record the change in oil level. Collect the gas as shown.

Bubble the gas through hydrogencarbonate indicator as shown.

Red

gas
collected

rubber tubing --~

Yoghurt contains lactic

acid formed by anaerobic
respiration in bacteria

--> Yellow

~~~ected

pull the plunger

to collect the gas
syringe

Carbon dioxide formed by

alcoholic fermentation in yeast
helps raise dough in breadmaking

Fig 22.17 Wine

11/J
----t;J

push the plunger

to force out the gas

Fig 22.18 Bread

hydrogen carbonate
indicator

Lactic acid formed by

anaerobic respiration in
bacteria helps coagulate milk
to form cheese

Fig 22.19 Yoghurt

Ethanol formed by the

fermentation of sugar in crops
can be used as a fuel to power
vehicles

Results an d discussion
The colour of the indicator changes from red/orange to yellow. This shows that the gas produced is
carbon dioxide. The germinating seeds can respire anaerobically when oxygen is absent.

Ethanol is usually mixed

wi th petrol (gasoline) to
form 'gasohol' (5~~ :ttM4) .

Fig 22.20 Cheese

22- 20

Fig 22.21 A vehicle powered by biofuel

22- 21

II

Organisms and En vironmen t

NOT required
in Corn. Sci.

22

.. Assignment 22.1

Respiration

NOT required
in Com. S<i.

Assignment WorksheetforSBA 22.1

5

Compare aerobic respiration and anaerobic respiration.

Applications of anaerobic respiration

in the food industry

Aerobic respiration

Anaerobic respiration

Similarities

In addition to the examples listed on p. 21 , how is

anaerobic respiration used in the food industry? Find
information from the library or the Internet. Share your
findings with your classmates.

~ Release energy from the oxidative breakdown of organic substances

~ Transfer energy to the energy carrier ATP, and some energy is lost as heat
~ Consist of a number of reactions controlled by enzymes

Differences
1. glycolysis
~ Occurs in cytoplasm and
2. Krebs cycle
mitochondria
~
Oxygen
is required
3. ETC

Biofuel development
Many countri es develop biofuel to meet the
increa sin g energy dema nd whil e redu ci ng the
dependence on foss il fuels. However, using
food as fuels may reduce the food supply. So me
governments are conside ri ng sw itching to non-food
materials, e.g. straw, for the production of biofue l.

1. Glycolysis
~

Occurs only in cytoplasm

Oxygen is not required

Organic substances are

completely broken down into
carbon dioxide and water

Organic substances are partly

broken down to form lactic acid
or ethanol and carbon dioxide

A larger amount of energy is

released (38 ATP per glucose)

A much smaller amount of energy

is released (2 ATP per glucose)

What are the applications of anaerobic respiration?

~ Alcoholic fermentation in yeast is used in brewing beer and wine, raising

dough in bread-making and producing ethanol as a biofuel.

~ Lactic acid fermentation in bacteria is used in making yoghurt and cheese.

Fig 22.22 Straw is the dry stalk of cereals after

the grains are harvested

Why is anaerobic respiration important to skeletal muscles during exercise?

How does anaerobic respiration occur in skeletal muscles?

Glucose undergoes glycolysis and is oxidized to pyruvate. NADH and ATP
are formed in the process.
~ Pyruvate is reduced to lactic acid by NADH.
~

What is the importance of anaerobic respiration during exercise?

~ Anaerobic respiration in muscles provides additional energy in a very
short time for muscle contraction.
What causes muscle fatigue and how do muscles recover?
During strenuous exercise, the lactic acid formed by anaerobic respiration
accumulates in muscles and causes muscle fatigue .
~ We keep breathing deeply after exercise to take in extra oxygen (oxygen
debt). The extra oxygen is used to remove all lactic acid by breaking it
down to carbon dioxide and water or converting it to glycogen.

The muscle cells cannot carry out aerobic respiration due to a lack of oxygen.

The muscle cells can oxidize the lactic acid formed in anaerobic res piration.

Anaerobic respira tion provides additional energy for muscle contraction. (76%)

More energy is released from a glucose molecule in anaerobic r.espiration

than in aerobic respira t ion.

How does anaerobic respiration occur in yeast?

Glucose undergoes glycolysis and is oxidized to pyruvate. NADH and ATP
are formed in the process.
~ Pyruvate is reduced to ethanol by NADH. Carbon dioxide is released
during the process.
~

Which of the following correct ly describes the fate of pyruvate in the anaerobic
respiration in yeast?
A

It is broken down in the mitochondrion.

It is broken down to release energy.

It is reduced to ethanol.

It is oxidized to ethanol and carbon dioxide.

_ p.19

c::::=======::::::::=======~=
- Q4,S (p. 29)

22- 22

~
_ p.18

HKCEE Biology 2005 II Q40

I(;l

Q6-10 (p. 30)

Q11 (p.31)

Q21 (p. 34)

22- 23

II

22

Organisms and Environment

Respiration

AL: 06(II)05a, 07(11)07

NOT required

NOT required
in Com. x i.

22.5 Relationship between

in Com. xi.

oxygen
glucose

respiration and photosynthesis

The equations of photosynthesis and respiration are shown below.

Teaching notes
Remind Ss that these
equations are highly
simplified . Respiration is not
the reverse of photosynthesis
as seen from the equations.
'Key learning' on p.26 shows
the differences between the
two processes.

Photosynthesis:
light energy

Light E

Chem E

carbon dioxide + water - - - - - - - - - + . carbohydrates + oxygen

(glucose)
Respiration:
energy (ATP)

Chem E

glucose + oxygen

Photosynthetic
organisms convert
light energy to
chemical energy
stored in organic food.

ATP

Through respiration ,
organisms break
down organic food
to release the stored
energy as ATP.

carbon dioxide + water

During photosynthesis, light energy from the sun, together with water
and carbon dioxide formed by respiration are converted to organic
compounds which store energy. The organic compounds are in turn
broken down in respiration to release energy for ATP formation
(Fig 22.23).
This exchange of molecules between photosynthesis and respiration
bridges the flow of energy from the environment to organisms and
allows the flow of energy in the ecosystem (Fig 22.24).

Fig 22.24 The flow of energy from the environment to organisms bridged b the
exchange of molecules between photosynthesis and respiration

Refer to Ch 2 1 for the

details of photosynthetic
reactions.

In the energy transformation process, ATP acts as the energy carrier.

ATP transfers light energy captured by chlorophyll to make organic
compounds in the Calvin cycle. It also transfers the energy released
by the oxidation breakdown of organic compounds to drive cellular
metabolism (Fig 22.25) .

:------------------------------------------~

E source

1
1

light

glucose - - - .
. pyruvate

ATP

chloroplast

1
1
1

in photosynthesis

--f-~

ATP

** Loss

cytoplasm

During both photosynthesis and respiration, energy is changed from

one form to another as biomolecules are converted to one another.
For example, in the Calvin cycle, the 3-C compound is converted
to triose phosphate using energy from ATP. In glycolysis, glucose is
converted to pyruvate which releases energy to form ATP.

light energy
captured by _
chlorophyll

mitochondrion

ATP

energy stored
in organic
compounds

energy that
drives cellular
metabolism

1
1

ADP+ P

glucose - -- - - - - --,

ADP+ P

1
1

1
1

1
1

in respiration

1______ ------------------------------------------ --- -------------------1

Fig 22.23 Exchange of molecules between photosynthesis and respiration

22- 24

Fig 22.25 Role of ATP in photosynthesis and respiration

22- 25

II

Organisms and Environment

NOT required

in Com. Sci.
NOT required
in Com. Sci.

The processes of respiration and photosynthesis seem to be the reverse

reaction of each other, but in fact they differ in many ways (see table
below).

oxidation

heat

adenosine triphosphate (ATP)

Photosynthesis

phosphorylation

aerobic respiration

anaerobic respiration

cytoplasm

mitochondrion (plural: mitochondria)

All living cells (cytoplasm and

mitochondria)

Chloroplast-containing cells

Type of
metabolism

Catabolism; breaks down organic food by

oxidation to release energy

Anabolism; builds up organic food by

reduction to store energy

Energy change

Chemical energy in food is converted to

ATP and heat

Formation of
ATP

Calvin cycle:

Carbon dioxide is removed from substrate

~ Carbon dioxide is fixed into the cycle by

Forms NADH and FADH

Forms ATP

a 5-C compound
~

Uses NADPH

Uses ATP

Oxidative phosphorylation:

Photophosphorylation:

Final hydrogen
acceptor

NADH, FADH

Oxygen

Light energy captured by chlorophyll

drives ATP formation by phosphorylation

excite an e-

(ATP is also formed in glycolysis and Krebs

cycle by phosphorylation)
Hydrogen donor

Light energy from the sun is converted to

chemical energy in food

Krebs cycle:

Oxidation of NADH and FADH drives ATP

formation by phosphorylation

p. 3

respiration

Site of
occurrence

Cyclic reactions

rlfQ'&f"Fffl

What are the differences between the processes of respiration and photosynthesis?
Respiration

~J!.~ telims

Water (photolysis of water produces

hydrogen and oxygen)
3-C compound in Calvin cycle

lAt

p. 3

AA

p. 3

iWimrlfQ,&
ifJcm~fQ,&

p. 6

pg~~M

p. 8

pgMMe.

13 pyruvate

p. 6

p. 8

12 triose phosphate

p. 8

14 nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)

uMc~~~i~~ =~:gM

p. 8

~ ~R

15 hydrogen donor

p. 8

16 acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA)

19 oxidative phosphorylation

~i~~e.t~~~J

MiS]:
Z,M

p. 10
p. 11
p. 14

p. 14
~LM-RM

IDl~~~

p. 18

p.19

mfl

25 alcoholic fermentation

~*~i~~=~:gM

m1t~M1t

{i~7.K

24 oxygen debt

p. 9
p. 9

18 flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD)

27 ethanol

Z,Mc~M A

R~fsl~f~

17 Krebs cycle

26 yeast

22- 26

t.viJf.fI~

~M~4

23 muscle fatigue

p. 5

t.viJf$l~~

22 lactic acid fermentation

Sugar in corn is converted to ethanol by

alcoholic fermentation in yeast.

p. 5

p. 6

10 mitochondrial matrix
11 glycolysis

p. 4
p. 4

r.m.l@~

21 lime water

=~M

~M1t

20 hydrogencarbonate indicator

Our body releases energy stored in food by

respiration. The energy is used to form ATP
which drives all cellular activities.

~'R:g

p.19
;gg~-RM

p.19
p.19
p.19

Respiration and photosynthesis together

allow the flow of energy in the ecosystem.

22- 27

NOT roquired
in Com. Sci.

NOT roquired
in Com. Sci.

p. T8

~xe~eise

Slllmma ~ eali1ee~t ma~

The anaerobic respiration of one molecule of

glucose results in the net gain of

;--_____~I

Respiration

i!--------

does not req uire

oxygen

requires
oxygen

experimental set-up below, which was used to

compare the rate of respiration of two different types
of insects. Insects of the same mass were placed into
the test tubes.

anaerobic
respiration

aerobic
respiration

releases

~~,r==

clip

"

chemical energy

both involve

heat
'-

some
stored in

II

ATP

glycolysis

I
I

p. T8

.-1--

1\

II

insect B
water bath
at 25C
sodium
hydroxide
solution

p. T8

The movement of coloured water in the U-tube

is caused by the

if aerobic, then
followed by

if anaerobic, then
followed by

oxidative
phosphorylation

formation of
lactic acid

formation of
ethanol and
carbon dioxide

p. T8

Which of the following modifications can

shorten the time for the experiment?
A
B

mitochondria

use
use
use
use

a
a
a
a

larger test tube

larger water bath
U-tube with a larger internal diameter
water bath set at a higher temperature (88%)
_ p.14

occur in
cytoplasm

HKCEE Biology 2007 II 030

lactic acid

pyruvic acid*

carbon
dioxide and
water

carbon
dioxide and
water

pyruvic acid

lactic acid

pyruvic acid

carbon
dioxide and
water

lactic acid

pyruvic acid

lactic acid

carbon
dioxide and
water

HKCEE Biology 2007 II 029

occur in

Which line in the table below identifies correctly

X, Y and Z?

heat released.
food consumed.
oxygen absorbed. (60%)
carbon dioxide released.
_ p. 14

Krebs cycle

The diagram below shows the respiratory pathway

in an animal cell.

U-tube filled
with coloured
water

insect A-t-perforated
platform sodium
hydroxide
solution

_ p.18, 19

r,::= [;JIl

If

mostly
as

Directions: Questions 1 and 2 refer to the

is
oxidative breakdown
of food

Multiple-choice questions

2 molecules of ATP.
2 molecules of ADP.
38 molecules of ATP.
38 molecules of ADP.

* When pyruvic acid dissolves in water, pyruvate will

be formed.
_ p.8, 18

SOA Biology Intermediate 2 2005 07

p. T8

Which of the following will be further oxidized

to release energy during aerobic respiration?
(1) NAD, FAD

(2) pyruvate
(3) triose phosphate
A

(1) only
(2) and (3) only

B
D

(1) and (2) only

(I), (2) and (3)
_ p.8, 9

22~ 28

22- 29

NOT roquired

NOT roquired

in Com. Sci.

p. T8

p. T8

8 ' To show that living yeast is essential for bringing

about the change in liquid level in the pipette,
the control set-up should contain

Which of the following correctly compares

p. T8 alcoholic fermentation and lactic acid
fermentation?

B
C

A
B
C

Lactic acid
fermentation

Alcoholic
fermentation
produces carbon
dioxide

does not produce (53%)

carbon dioxide

uses alcohol as the

substrate

uses lactic acid as

the substrate

by-products will be
further metabolized

by-products will
not be further
metabolized

11 Which of the following statements about aerobic

and anaerobic respiration in humans is incorrect?
A
B
C

boiled glucose solution only.

living yeast and boiled water.
dead yeast and boiled water.
dead yeast and boiled glucose solution. (79%)

_ p.19

Directions: Questions 9 and 10 refer to the graph

below, which shows change in the rate of oxygen
uptake of a person in 30 minutes:

12 Four different solutions, each 1 % in

concentration, were added separately to some
fresh muscle fibres. Which of the following
solutions would result in the most immediate
contraction of the muscle fibres?
ATP solution
B DNA solution
C glucose solution
D sucrose solution

.:::r:.

::l

Directions: Questions 7 and 8 refer to the diagram

below, which shows an experimental set-up used to
study the action of yeast on glucose:

Q)

OJ

>-

'0

-~----S---

10

15

20

25

-..If---- oil layer

During which period does the person carry out

exercise?
A

yeast and
boiled glucose
solution

~-- living

C
D

p. T8

in
in
in
in

0-1 minute only

0-5 minute only
1-5 minute only
1-15 minute only

Respiration is controlled by enzymes.

During respiration, energy is only released as

heat.

HKCEE Human Biology 2002 II Q12

p. T8

rises

10 Which area in the graph represents the oxygen

ethanol is produced (48%)
debt developed during exercise?

rises

oxygen is consumed (5%)

drops

glucose is (19%)
consumed

drops

carbon dioxide is (28%)

produced

B
C
D

area
area
area
area

* 15

ATP links energy-releasing reactions with

energy-requiring reactions. The diagram shows
some of these reactions .

R
P + area R
R + area S
Q + area S + area T

The breaking down of glucose is complete in

anaerobic respiration.

ATP temporarily stores energy in the form of

heat.
_ p.3-7

_ p.19

HKCEE Human Biology 2002 II Q13

ATP

(amino acids

Give the numbers in the diagram that

correspond to energy-releasing reactions.
(1 mark)

Explain why the total energy released from an

energy-releasing reaction is not all available
for the linked energy-requiring reactions.
(1 mark)

The diagram shows some of the reactions of

respira tio n.
glucose

triose phosphate

pyruvate

-----+-~

lactate*

acetyl coenzyme A

* Lactate is the salt formed when lactic acid

dissolves in water.

On the diagram, draw and label one arrow to

show a reaction that

~ HKEAA exam report (p.30, 07)

Nearly half of the candidates wrongly thought the
production of ethanol would bring about a rise in the liquid
level in the pipette. This mistake may be caused by their
lack of practical experience in this type of experiments and
their inabil ity to realize that the production of a gas (carbon
dioxide) would have a greater effect on the change in liquid
level than the production of a liquid product (ethanol).

l~

proteins

Muscle cells contain more mitochondria than

cheek cells.

ADP + P, ~

glucose + oxygen) (

carbon dioxide + water

13 State whether the following sentences are true or

false. Rewrite them if they are false.
(5 marks)

_ p.19

Which of the following correctly states and

explains the change in liquid level in the pipette
after 30 minutes?

p. T9

p. T8

p. T8

~ HKEAA exam report (07)

_ p.4, 19

Short questions

30

time (minute)

--I

HKCEE Biology 2003 II Q24

Describe how NAD is regenerated in the

anaerobic respiration in yeast.
(1 mark)

HKCEE Human Biology 2000 II Q14

---16---- clamp

_ p. 19, 20

_ p.4

Q)

Change in liquid level Cause for the change

Give two advantages of ATP as an energystorage molecule within a cell.

(2 marks)

Q)

ro
a.

involve enzymes.
consume glucose.
release energy.
produce carbon dioxide.
_ p.23

p. T8

HKCEE Biology 2006 II Q9

processes
processes
processes
processes

What is the net yield of ATP per molecule of

glucose in the anaerobic respiration in yeast?
(1 mark)

HKCEE Human Biology 2001 II Q47

_ p.18,19

pipette

Both
Both
Both
Both

14 a

HKCEE Biology 2003 II Q25

occurs in plants only occurs in animals

only

rubber tube

in Com. Sci.

p. T8

requires ATP (label this arrow 'ATP in');

ii

produces ATP
(label this arrow 'ATP out').

(2 marks)
_ p.8, 9,18

AQA GCE (A) Biology Unit 5 Jan 2003 Q7

Refer to p.31.

22- 30

22- 31

NOT required

NOT reqUIred

in Com. Sci.

in Com. Sci.

16 The diagram below shows some of the stages in

aerobic respiration.

p. T9

glucose

The diagram below shows an experimental setup used by John to study the changes in the
rate of respiration of mealworms at different
temperatures. During the experiment, the
position of the plunger remained unchanged.

p. T9

18 The diagram below shows a mitochondrion in a

human muscle cell.

2H+ATP

** 20

Structured questions

pyruvate
r---~2 H --".3ATP
1-----2 ATP

2H+X

acetyl-GoA
6-carbon
compound

4-carbon
compound

ATP~
X
6H

ii
b

5-carbon
compound

~x

arne substance X.

(1 mark)

arne stages A and B.

(1 mark)

Explain what happens to the hydrogen that

is produced during stage B.
(4 marks)

(1 mark)

Name regions X and Y.

To which substance is the acetyl group

attached before it enters the Krebs cycle?
(1 mark)

Explain how ATP is able to supply energy for

biological processes.
(1 mark)
_ p.ll

(final acceptor
of hydrogen

..... ~~I---l--

water bath
1 ATP

final product
b

Name carrier Z.
ii

p. T9

17 The diagram represents two of the stages

of aerobic respiration that take place in a
mitochondrion.

(1 mark)

Name the final acceptor of hydrogen.

(1 mark)

iii Describe the importance of ATP in cells.

(1 mark)

iv The quantity of ATP present in a human

cell remains fairly constant yet ATP is
continually being broken down. Suggest
a reason for this .
(1 mark)
d

~-l'=-=-+--

Describe how the hydrogen released during

glycolysis and the Krebs cycle results in the
production of ATP.
(4 marks)
Using the information in the diagram, state
the number of ATP molecules produced
from one triose phosphate molecule.
(1 mark)

~==--==+--

Each fatty acid is broken down into

acetyl-CoA molecules. The acetyl-CoA
molecules then enter the Krebs cycle.

mealworms
wire gauze
soda lime
glass tubing

- -------

Explain why this set-up can be used to

measure the rate of respiration of the
mealworms.
(4 marks)

Using the data obtained from this set-up,

John worked out the rate of respiration of
the mealworms at different temperatures and
the results are shown in the graph below:

As well as carbohydrates, triglycerides are

respired. The first step is to break down each
triglyceride molecule into glycerol and three
fatty acids.

Name the final product of anaerobic

(1 mark)
respiration in a muscle cell.

'--I=-=-+--

8 H - - . . 11 ATP

formation of ATP

Edexcel GeE (A) Biology (Salters-Nuffield)

Jun 2006 Q1

plunger

1-=-:=+l=-=:-UJ.1.JU== t - syringe

L - _ - - . ._ _- - l

carrier Z

cm 3 pipette
f----

In region Y, hydrogen is passed through a

series of carriers as shown in the diagram
below.

carrier Z + hYdrogen)

water droplet

1----_ 2 H - - 3 ATP

:c

.s

Using information in the diagram, state

the number of ATP molecules produced
from one acetyl-CoA molecule. (1 mark)

_ p.6, 12, 18

~ 2
a.

If)

'0
Q)

(1 mark)

Name substance X.

Which stage of aerobic respiration takes

place inside a mitochondrion and is not
represented on the diagram?
(1 mark)

Explain why oxygen is needed for the

production of ATP on the cristae of the
mitochondrion.
(3 marks)
_ p.13

p. T9

* 19

The flow diagram below shows some of the steps

involved in glycolysis and the Krebs cycle. Some
ATP is made directly. Hydrogen is also released
and this can result in the production of more
ATP.

ii

Suggest why fatty acids can only be

respired under aerobic conditions.

~
O~---.---~---__~___~

10

(3 marks)
_ p.8-11

20

30

40

50

temperature of water bath (0C)

What conclusion can be drawn from the
results of the experiment?
(2 marks)

Edexcel GeE (A) Human Health and Fitness

Jun 2005 Q3

ii

Based on biological principles, explain

the conclusion obtained in i.
(3 marks)

AQA GeE (A) Biology Unit 5 J un 2006 Q3

22- 32

22- 33

NOT required

NOT required
in Com. Sd.

in Com. Sci.

'Nhenever the water bath was changed to a

new temperature, John waited for 10 minutes
before he started to take any reading. Explain
(2 marks)
why this is necessary.
_ p. 14

* 22

The diagram below shows a set-up used to

measure the rate of respiration of a rat at 30C:

ii
d

to air
pump

air in

Calculate the rate of respiration of

the rat.
(2 marks)

Suggest two precautions that have to be

taken if the set-up is used to measure the
rate of respiration of a potted plant. (2 marks)

HKCEE Biology 1999 I Q4b

_ p.14

Essays
p. T10

24 Describe the roles and importance of hydrogen

carriers, NAD, FAD and NADP, in a palisade

mesophyll cell.
(10 marks)
_ p.8-12

HKCEE Biology 1998 I Q3c

p. T9

21 The main stages in anaerobic respiration in yeast

are shown in the diagram.

*23

2 ATP

2 NAD)

( 2 ADP+P,
4 ADP+P i

2 reduced NAD

potassium
hydroxide
solution

drying
agent

rat

lime
water

potassium
hydroxide
solution

Bell jar

Flask B

Flask C

x
Flask AU-tube

An experiment was carried out to study the

changes in blood lactic acid concentration of an

athlete during and after exercise. On day 1, the
athlete ran for 10 minutes and then sat down to
rest for 40 minutes. On day 2, she performed
the same exercise, following by slow jogging for
40 minutes. The results of the experiment are
shown in the graph below:

25 Both the chloroplast and the mitochondrion are

involved in ATP production. In what ways are
their ATP production processes similar to each
other and how do they differ?
(11 marks)
_ p.8-l2

HKALE Biology 2003 II Q6a

A rat was first put into the bell jar and the
weight of flask A was measured. Air was then
pumped through the set-up for 30 minutes and
the weight of flask A was measured again.

4ATP

2 reduced NAD)

I
I

Then the drying agent and the solutions in all

three flasks were renewed. The procedures were
repeated without the rat in the bell jar.

2 NAD

-~-- - -~----~----~----~-- -1----~---I

t
I
I
I

' :

--~-- - - ~ -- - - ~ ----~--- -~ - -- - ~----~----~ -- - -~- -- I

The weights of flask A were recorded as shown

in the table below:

I
I

I
I

I
I

25

30

I
I

I
I

40

45

50

10

15

20

35

- --

time (min)

N arne process X.

a
ii

(1 mark)

Give one piece of evidence from the

diagram which suggests that the
conversion of pyruvate to ethanol
(1 mark)
involves reduction.

iii Explain why converting pyruvate to

ethanol is important in allowing the
continued production of ATP in
(2 marks)
anaerobic respiration.
b

AQA GCE (A) Biology Unit 5 Jun 2005 Q7

211.8

211.8

206.7

Account for the increase in blood lactic acid

concentration in the first 10 minutes.
(3 marks)

The rate of carbon dioxide production also

increased in the first 10 minutes. Write a
word equation to show how carbon dioxide
is produced.
(2 marks)

Why is it harmful to the body cells if the

blood contains a high level of lactic acid?
(1 mark)

Referring to the graph, which method, sitting

down or slow jogging, is more effective
in removing lactic acid from the blood
after exercise? Based on your biological
knowledge, explain why this method is more
effective.
(4 marks)

206.1

(without rat)

similar to anaerobic respiration of

glucose in a muscle cell;
(2 marks)

_ p.19

Experimental
Control

different from anaerobic respiration of

glucose in a muscle cell.
(2 marks)

Final weight
of flask A (g)

(with rat)

Give two ways in which anaerobic respiration

of glucose in yeast is

ii

Set-up

Initial
weight of
flask A (g)

Write a word equation for aerobic

respiration.

(1 mark)

'Nhat is the use of the potassium hydroxide

(1 mark)
solution in flask A?
The decrease in weight of flask A in the
control set-up is due to the evaporation
of water from the potassium hydroxide
solution. Using this information, explain
the result in the experimental set-up.
(3 marks)

.. p.18

HKCEE Biology 2004 I Q4a

22- 34

22-35

NOT requirod

in Com. 5ci.

Read the article below and answer the questions.

Dependence on anaerobic respiration of different sports

Different sports depend on the energy supply from anaerobic respiration to different extent. Sports
that require short bursts of powerful muscle contractions, e.g. sprinting and tennis, depend mainly on
anaerobic respiration. Those that require long duration of muscle contractions, e.g. marathon, depend
more on aerobic respiration.
Our skeletal muscles contain two types of muscle fibres that are specialized for the two types of
respiration. Fast-twitch (tJi!:1&~~ ) fibres rely on energy released by anaerobic respiration. They can
contract at a higher rate and more powerfully but become tired more easily. Slow-twitch .( ti:1&~~ )
fibres rely on aerobic respiration. They contract at a slower rate but can contract for a longer time
without fatigue. Slow-twitch fibres usually have more mitochondria than fast-twitch ones. These two
types of fibres differ in percentage in different skeletal muscles.

Fig 22.26 Sprinting is an anaerobic exercise

Fig 22.27 Marathon is an aerobic exercise

Questions
p. T10

Explain the difference in the amount of mitochondria in fast-twitch and slow-twitch fibres.
(2 marks)

p. T10

Explain why the leg muscles of a sprinter usually contain more fast-twitch fibres than
those of a marathon runner.
(3 marks)

p. T10

22- 36

If you want to strengthen your heart and lungs, would you choose doing aerobic or
anaerobic exercise regularly? Explain.

(3 marks)

NOT required

in Com. Sci.

Read the article below and answer the questions.

Dependence on anaerobic respiration of different sports

Different sports depend on the energy supply from anaerobic respiration to different extent. Sports
that require short bursts of powerful muscle contractions, e.g. sprinting and tennis, depend mainly on
anaerobic respiration. Those that require long duration of muscle contractions, e.g. marathon, depend
more on aerobic respiration.
Our skeletal muscles contain two types of muscle fibres that are specialized for the two types of
respiration. Fast-twitch (~1&m;~ ) fibres rely on energy released by anaerobic respiration. They can
contract at a higher rate and more powerfully but become tired more easily. Slow-twitch .( ~1& ~ ~ )
fibres rely on aerobic respiration. They contract at a slower rate but can contract for a longer time
without fatigue. Slow-twitch fibres usually have more mitochondria than fast-twitch ones. These two
types of fibres differ in percentage in different skeletal muscles.

Fig 22.26 Sprinting is an anaerobic exercise

Fig 22.27 Marathon is an aerobic exercise

Questions
p. T10

Explain the difference in the amount of mitochondria in fast-twitch and slow-twitch fibres.
(2 marks)

p. T10

Explain why the leg muscles of a sprinter usually contain more fast-twitch fibres than
those of a marathon runner.
(3 marks)

p. T10

12- 36

If you want to strengthen your heart and lungs, would you choose doing aerobic or
anaerobic exercise regularly? Explain.

(3 marks)