Which metabolic pathway requires oxygen for ATP production?

The correct answer is aerobic metabolism, which is the metabolic pathway that requires oxygen for the production of ATP. Aerobic metabolism occurs in the mitochondria of cells and uses oxygen to efficiently convert substrates such as glucose and fatty acids into ATP, carbon dioxide, and water. This process is essential during prolonged, moderate-intensity exercise where the demand for energy is high, as aerobic metabolism can sustain energy production for an extended period.

In contrast, anaerobic metabolism occurs without oxygen and primarily relies on glucose for ATP production through glycolysis. While this pathway can provide quick energy, it is limited in duration and leads to the formation of lactic acid, which may contribute to muscle fatigue. The phosphagen system also does not utilize oxygen; it relies on stored creatine phosphate to generate quick bursts of ATP for high-intensity, short-duration activities. Lactic acid fermentation, another anaerobic process, occurs during high-intensity exercise when oxygen levels are insufficient, further emphasizing that these processes do not require oxygen for ATP production.