Fermentation: An Overview

What is Fermentation?

• Also known as anaerobic respiration.
• Process where cells produce energy without the presence of oxygen.
• Less efficient than aerobic respiration (with oxygen).

Types of Fermentation

1. Alcoholic Fermentation

• Occurs in plants and yeast.
• Process:
  • Glucose (pyruvic acid) is converted into ethanol (alcohol).
  • Produces carbon dioxide and energy.
• Applications:
  • Used in the production of wines and beers.

2. Lactic Acid Fermentation

• Occurs in animals, including humans.
• Process:
  • Glucose (pyruvic acid) is converted into lactic acid plus energy.

Efficiency of Fermentation

• In aerobic respiration, 36 ATPs (adenosine triphosphate) are produced per glucose.
• In fermentation, only 2 ATPs are produced per glucose.

Importance

• Provides a mechanism for energy production when oxygen is not available.

Additional Notes

• Mumu Math uploads a new math and science video every day.