The equation that best describes a method of anaerobic respiration is:
A. Glucose yields energy and lactic acid.
During anaerobic respiration, when oxygen is not available, glucose undergoes a process that yields energy along with lactic acid as a byproduct. This process is common in certain microorganisms and human muscle cells during intense exercise when oxygen supply is limited. The breakdown of glucose in the absence of oxygen results in the production of lactic acid, which can lead to muscle fatigue and soreness.
In contrast, options B, C, and D involve aerobic respiration, which occurs in the presence of oxygen and leads to the production of carbon dioxide, water, and energy from the breakdown of glucose. Anaerobic respiration, as described in option A, is a less efficient process compared to aerobic respiration but serves as a temporary solution when oxygen is scarce.