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Multiple Choice
Which one of the following conditions is most likely to lead to anaerobic metabolism?
A
Low oxygen availability
B
High oxygen availability
C
Abundant glucose supply
D
Presence of sunlight
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of anaerobic metabolism: Anaerobic metabolism occurs when cells generate energy without oxygen. This process is typically less efficient than aerobic metabolism, which uses oxygen.
Identify the conditions that lead to anaerobic metabolism: The key factor is low oxygen availability. When oxygen levels are insufficient, cells switch from aerobic to anaerobic pathways to produce energy.
Consider the role of oxygen in cellular respiration: Oxygen is crucial for aerobic respiration, where it acts as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain, allowing for efficient ATP production.
Evaluate the options given: High oxygen availability supports aerobic metabolism, abundant glucose supply provides fuel but does not directly affect oxygen levels, and presence of sunlight is unrelated to oxygen availability in cellular respiration.
Conclude that low oxygen availability is the condition most likely to lead to anaerobic metabolism, as it forces cells to rely on pathways that do not require oxygen.