Lactic Acid
Science: KS3, topic 1.6.20
Lactic Acid
Lactic Acid is a waste by-product of anaerobic respiration. Lactic acid enables energy to be produced in cells without the presence of oxygen.
Formula
- Lactic acid is an organic acid.
- Lactic acid has the formula CH₃CHCOOH.
- Lactic acid contains carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen.
- Lactic acid can be mixed with water to form a colorless solution.
Lactic acid and exercise
- Lactic acid is the waste by-product of anaerobic respiration.
- Lactic acid is created when you exercise.
- Exercise may cause deeper breathing.
- Deeper breathing is your body trying to inhale more oxygen.
Excess lactic acid
- Some health conditions prevent people from getting enough oxygen.
- Lack of oxygen may cause continuous high levels of lactic acid.
- Continuous high levels of lactic acid may lead to:
- Kidney failure
- Liver failure
- Cirrhosis
- The liver converts lactic acid back into glucose.
Test yourself on Lactic Acid
What is lactic acid a waste by-product of?
A health condition means a person's cells never get enough oxygen. What is this likely to do to their lactic acid levels?