What is anaerobic respiration?

Anaerobic respiration is the process of breaking down glucose to release energy in the absence of oxygen. It is less efficient than aerobic respiration because the breakdown of glucose is incomplete.

In this process, a smaller amount of energy is produced along with by-products such as lactic acid in human muscles or alcohol and carbon dioxide in organisms like yeast.

Anaerobic respiration occurs in the cytoplasm of cells and usually takes place when oxygen supply is insufficient, such as during vigorous physical activity.

Although it produces less energy, anaerobic respiration allows organisms to continue generating energy for a short period under low oxygen conditions.