Respiration (VSAQs)

Biology | 2. Respiration – VSAQs:
Welcome to VSAQs in Chapter 2: Respiration. This page contains the most important VSAQs in this chapter. Aim to secure top marks in your exams by understanding these clear and straightforward Very Short Answer Questions.

VSAQ-1 : Label (a) and (b) in the given diagram.

Matrix and Crest in Cellular Diagrams

  1. Ensure that “Matrix” in your diagram refers to the inner space of mitochondria or to the extracellular matrix surrounding cells, both common uses of the term in cellular biology.
  2. If the term “Crest” appears in your diagram, and it relates to a mitochondrion, it likely refers to the “Cristae,” the folds of the inner mitochondrial membrane.
  3. If it’s a different diagram, make sure that “Crest” accurately describes the labeled part.

VSAQ-2 : What is the role of diaphragm and ribs in respiration? Are both active in men and women?

Roles of Diaphragm and Ribs in Respiration

  1. Inhalation (Inspiration):
    During inhalation, the diaphragm flattens and moves downward, and the ribs move upward and outward. This expands the chest cavity, lowers internal pressure, and allows air to flow into the lungs.
  2. Exhalation (Expiration):
    During exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes and moves upward, and the ribs move downward and inward. This reduces the chest cavity’s volume and increases internal pressure, aiding in expelling air from the lungs.
  3. Gender Neutrality:
    This mechanism is active and essential in both men and women, although there may be subtle variations in breathing patterns due to differences in body structure.

VSAQ-3 : Write any two differences between photosynthesis and respiration.

Nature of Process

  1. Photosynthesis:
    An anabolic process where plants and certain bacteria use light energy to synthesize complex molecules like glucose from simpler substances. This process occurs in the chloroplasts.
  2. Respiration:
    A catabolic process where food molecules such as glucose are broken down in the mitochondria of cells (in both plants and animals) to release energy for cellular activities.

Energy Conversion

  1. Photosynthesis:
    Converts light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose and other organic compounds.
  2. Respiration:
    Converts chemical energy stored in food molecules into usable energy, primarily in the form of ATP, which is used for various functions within the cell.

VSAQ-4 : Observe the given table.
Answer the questions given below based on the above table.
i.Why does the amount of oxygen vary between exhaled and inhaled air?
ii. In inhaled and exhaled air the percentage of nitrogen is same. State the reason

GAS% in Inhaled Air% in Exhaled Air
Oxygen2116
Carbon-di-oxide0.034.4
Nitrogen7878
  1. Why does the amount of oxygen vary between exhaled and inhaled air?
    The oxygen level varies between exhaled and inhaled air because when we breathe in, oxygen from the air enters our lungs and is absorbed into the bloodstream. This oxygen is then utilized by our body’s cells for cellular respiration to produce energy. Consequently, the air we breathe out contains less oxygen than the air we inhale, as a portion of the oxygen has been used by the body.
  2. In inhaled and exhaled air, the percentage of nitrogen is the same. State the reason.
    The percentage of nitrogen remains consistent in both inhaled and exhaled air because nitrogen, being an inert gas, does not participate in the body’s gaseous exchange during respiration. Unlike oxygen, nitrogen is not absorbed or utilized for metabolic activities. It simply passes through the respiratory system unchanged, leading to its percentage remaining the same in both inhaled and exhaled air.

VSAQ-5 : What is the role of epiglottis in respiration and swallowing food?

Role of the Epiglottis in Respiration and Swallowing

  1. Respiration:
    During breathing, the epiglottis stays open, allowing air to pass freely through the trachea into the lungs.
  2. Swallowing:
    However, during swallowing, the epiglottis folds down to fully cover the entrance of the trachea. This action prevents food or liquids from entering the windpipe.
  3. Ensuring Safe Swallowing:
    By directing food down the esophagus to the stomach, the epiglottis ensures safe swallowing, minimizing the risk of choking or aspiration of food into the respiratory system.

VSAQ-6 : State two similarities between aerobic and anaerobic respiration. (OR) Anaerobic and Aerobic respiration are similar. How?

Anaerobic and aerobic respiration share the following similarities:

  1. Glycolysis:
    Both processes begin with glycolysis, where a glucose molecule is broken down into pyruvic acid. This initial step is the same in both aerobic and anaerobic respiration.
  2. Energy Production:
    Despite differences in efficiency and conditions, both aerobic and anaerobic respiration result in the production of energy. While aerobic respiration produces more ATP (energy) by fully oxidizing glucose in the presence of oxygen, anaerobic respiration generates a smaller amount of ATP through partial oxidation of glucose in the absence of oxygen.

VSAQ-7 : “Respiration is the energy releasing process”. Write your opinion on this statement.

I agree that “Respiration is the energy-releasing process.” It’s a key biological process where food molecules like glucose are broken down to produce ATP, the main energy source for cells. This occurs either with oxygen (aerobic respiration) or without it (anaerobic respiration). The ATP produced is crucial for various cellular functions, making respiration essential for the survival and growth of all living organisms.

VSAQ-8 : Name chemical substance produced in human muscles during Anaerobic respiration.

During anaerobic respiration in human muscles, lactic acid is produced as a byproduct. This occurs when there is insufficient oxygen available to completely break down glucose, typically during intense physical activities. The accumulation of lactic acid can lead to muscle fatigue and soreness.

VSAQ-9 : Why diazene green solution is added to the glucose solution in Anaerobic respiration experiment?

Diazene green solution is added to glucose in anaerobic respiration experiments as an oxygen indicator. In the presence of oxygen, diazene green maintains its color, but in anaerobic conditions, it changes color, indicating the absence of oxygen. This color change helps distinguish between aerobic and anaerobic respiration.