Question

Lack of oxygen in muscles often leads to cramps in the legs of sprinters. This is due to the conversion of pyruvate to ______.

Options

• ethanol

• carbon dioxide

• acetic acid

• lactic acid

Answer 1

Lack of oxygen in muscles often leads to cramps in the legs of sprinters. This is due to the conversion of pyruvate to lactic acid.

Explanation:

When a sprinter exerts themselves during a race, their muscles require oxygen faster than the circulatory system can deliver it. Under these anaerobic conditions, the muscle cells break down pyruvate into lactic acid. The accumulation of lactic acid in muscle tissue leads to the sensation of cramps and muscle fatigue.