86.2k views
11 votes
How does pH and temperature affect cellular respiration?

User Saeb Amini
by
5.2k points

2 Answers

5 votes

Final answer:

pH and temperature directly influence cellular respiration and enzyme activity in cells, affecting metabolism and causing shifts in blood pH levels during various states of activity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The effects of pH and temperature on cellular respiration are significant, as these factors influence enzyme activity and the overall metabolism of an organism. In active states, tissues consume more oxygen and produce higher levels of carbon dioxide. This leads to the production of more hydrogen ions, lowering the blood pH. Conversely, at rest, oxygen levels are higher and carbon dioxide levels are lower, leading to a higher pH.

Temperature affects cellular respiration by influencing the solubility of gases and the rate of enzyme-catalyzed reactions. Higher temperatures tend to increase the rate of biochemical reactions, doubling or tripling metabolic rates with every 10°C rise. This necessitates a higher food intake to meet the energy demands. Both high and low temperature extremes can affect the functioning of enzymes and cellular metabolism.

In summary, optimal cellular respiration requires a balance of pH and temperature levels to maintain efficient metabolism and energy production within cells. Extreme variations can disrupt enzyme activities and metabolic processes, ultimately affecting an organism's overall health and functioning.

User Corneil Du Plessis
by
5.2k points
10 votes
pH – depends on the environment the cell that is respiring is in.

Temperature; as it increases, the rate increases…to a point (too hot and enzymes denature!)
User Aaron Adams
by
6.0k points