Question

Compare and contrast the role of fermentation and cellular respiration in the actual production of ATP. In your response, consider which process produces ATP and which process contributes to its production.

Answer 1

Cellular respiration is the main process that produces ATP and occurs in the presence of oxygen, while fermentation is an anaerobic process that produces a small amount of ATP. Cellular respiration is more efficient in ATP production, but fermentation allows cells to produce ATP without oxygen.

Step-by-step explanation:

Fermentation and cellular respiration play different roles in the production of ATP. Cellular respiration is the main process that produces ATP and occurs in the presence of oxygen. It involves the complete breakdown of glucose to carbon dioxide and water, with the production of a large amount of ATP through processes like glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. On the other hand, fermentation is an anaerobic process that occurs in the absence of oxygen. It is a partial breakdown of glucose that produces a small amount of ATP. While cellular respiration is more efficient in ATP production, fermentation allows cells to continue producing some ATP even when oxygen is not available.