during anaerobic respiration in skeletal muscles pyruvic acid is
During anaerobic respiration in skeletal muscles, what happens to pyruvic acid?
Answer:
During anaerobic respiration in skeletal muscles, pyruvic acid is converted into lactic acid. When oxygen is not present in sufficient amounts for aerobic respiration, pyruvic acid undergoes fermentation to produce lactic acid, allowing the muscles to continue functioning despite the lack of oxygen. This process is essential for providing a rapid source of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy currency of the cell, during intense physical activity. However, the accumulation of lactic acid can lead to muscle fatigue and soreness.