What is anaerobic respiration?

Anaerobic respiration refers to the metabolic process in which organisms convert energy for cellular use without the presence of oxygen. This process is essential for certain organisms, especially in environments where oxygen is scarce or absent. Anaerobic respiration typically leads to the production of energy along with byproducts such as lactic acid or ethanol and carbon dioxide, depending on the organism and specific pathway involved.

It is important to note that many microorganisms and some muscle cells utilize anaerobic respiration, particularly during strenuous activity, when oxygen levels may drop. This allows for continued energy production when aerobic pathways cannot function. The other options incorrectly describe anaerobic respiration either by associating it with oxygen dependence, photosynthesis, or limiting it to a specific group of organisms like plants, which do not rely on anaerobic processes exclusively.