What type of acid is produced under anaerobic conditions?

Under anaerobic conditions, the predominant type of acid produced is lactic acid. This occurs primarily in muscle cells during intense exercise when the oxygen supply is insufficient for aerobic respiration. In the absence of oxygen, pyruvate, which is formed from glucose during glycolysis, cannot enter the aerobic pathways of the mitochondria for further oxidation. Instead, it is converted into lactic acid through the enzyme lactate dehydrogenase. This process allows for ATP production to continue albeit at a significantly lower yield compared to aerobic respiration.

Lactic acid can accumulate in muscle tissue and lead to temporary fatigue. However, it is also reconverted back to glucose in the liver through the Cori cycle once the oxygen supply is restored. Understanding this mechanism is crucial for grasping how the body adapts to varying oxygen levels and energy demands.