In which type of cells does lactic acid fermentation occur?

Lactic acid fermentation primarily occurs in animal cells, particularly in muscle cells during anaerobic conditions when oxygen is scarce. During strenuous exercise, for instance, muscle cells require energy rapidly and may not receive sufficient oxygen to support aerobic respiration. As a result, they switch to lactic acid fermentation to produce energy. This process converts glucose into lactic acid and produces a small amount of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is essential for continued muscle activity. This is why the correct answer identifies animal cells as the primary location for lactic acid fermentation.

While other cells, such as bacterial cells, can undergo fermentation processes, they typically do not produce lactic acid specifically. Fungal cells might also perform fermentation but are known for producing alcohol instead of lactic acid. Plant cells primarily utilize alcoholic fermentation rather than lactic acid fermentation. Understanding these specific pathways can clarify why lactic acid fermentation is distinctly associated with animal cells.