C1.2.5—Anaerobic vs. aerobic respiration in humans

Aerobic respiration in humans uses oxygen and mitochondria, while anaerobic respiration in cytoplasm produces lactate and little ATP, supporting usable cellular work and measurable biological activity.

Exam analysis

Chance of appearing14%of analysed past papers

Latest appearanceNovember 2025

Most common paperPaper3

Typical marks1–2

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Recent exam appearances

November 2025Paper1A ["SL"] · TZ34[ 1 ]C1.2.5—Anaerobic vs. aerobic respiration in humans

May 2025Paper1A ["SL"] · TZ36[ 1 ]C1.2.5—Anaerobic vs. aerobic respiration in humans

November 2024Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ112[ 1 ]C1.2.5—Anaerobic vs. aerobic respiration in humans

May 2024Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ18[ 1 ]C1.2.5—Anaerobic vs. aerobic respiration in humans

November 2019Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ012[ 1 ]C1.2.5—Anaerobic vs. aerobic respiration in humans

Practice this objective

Coverage 2010–2025 · Updated 15 Jul 2026

Concept essentials

Aerobic respiration requires oxygen and uses mitochondria.
Human anaerobic respiration occurs in cytoplasm and produces lactate.
Anaerobic respiration gives a much smaller ATP yield than aerobic respiration.
Oxygen debt is linked to lactate production and later aerobic recovery.