AEROBIC RESPIRATION

• This is the combination of food with oxygen to release energy.

• The equation is as follows:

C 6 H 12 O 6(s) +60 2(g) →CO 2(g) + H 2 O (l) +energy

• Humans generally undergo this type of respiration when relaxed and the oxygen necessary
for this reaction enters the body via gaseous exchange.

GASEOUS EXCHANGE IN HUMANS

• Humans inhale air which contains 22% oxygen and 4% carbon dioxide.

• They exhale air which contains 16% carbon dioxide and 4% oxygen.

• These gases diffuse across a respiratory surface known as the alveoli.

• The oxygen molecules diffuse across from the alveoli and into the blood stream. This is
possible because the blood vessels found in this area (capillaries) are only 1 cell thick.

• After respiration has occurred, the waste product of carbon dioxide is transported in the
blood stream. When entering the vessels surrounding the alveoli, the carbon dioxide diffuses
across the membrane and into the alveoli.

• Gaseous exchange allows for the gathering of reactants for respiration and the removal of
waste products from respiration.