Question

During intense, short-duration activities depleting the CP (creatine phosphate) stores, what physiological effect is most likely to impact performance?

A) Increased oxygen consumption
B) Accumulation of lactic acid
C) Elevated heart rate
D) Depletion of ATP

Answer 1

The accumulation of lactic acid is most likely to impact performance during intense, short-duration activities that deplete CP stores, as this is associated with muscle fatigue and soreness.

Step-by-step explanation:

During intense, short-duration activities that deplete the CP (creatine phosphate) stores, the most likely physiological effect to impact performance is the accumulation of lactic acid. Creatine phosphate supplies the energy needs of a muscle at a high rate for about 8-10 seconds; afterwards, muscles rely on glycolysis for ATP production. Glycolysis does not require oxygen and produces ATP along with pyruvic acid, which is then converted to lactic acid when oxygen levels are low. The buildup of lactic acid is associated with muscle fatigue and soreness, often referred to as the 'stitch' during or after strenuous exercise. This is because the production of ATP switches from creatine phosphate, which generates quickly, to glycolysis, which produces at a slower rate.