Aerobic respiration takes place in cells to release energy from glucose. Describe aerobic respiration, including where in the cell it occurs and the uses of the energy released.

Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 12.2 Aerobic respiration · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Aerobic respiration requires oxygen and occurs in the presence of oxygen.
Glucose is broken down to produce carbon dioxide and water.
It takes place in the mitochondria.
The energy released is used for muscle contraction.

Examiner tips

Use the exact terminology: ‘requires oxygen’, ‘occurs in the presence of oxygen’, ‘mitochondria’, and name a process. Keep each point short – one sentence per mark. Mention the products (CO₂, H₂O) to show understanding of the overall reaction.

Common mistakes

Writing anaerobic respiration or omitting oxygen. Failing to specify the mitochondria. Using a process not listed in the mark scheme. Adding unnecessary detail such as the stages of glycolysis.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

Aerobic respiration requires oxygen / occurs in the presence of oxygen
Glucose is broken down to produce carbon dioxide and water
Aerobic respiration occurs in the mitochondria
Energy released is used for any ONE named process: muscle contraction / protein synthesis / active transport / cell division / growth / nerve impulses / maintaining body temperature

Key terms in this question

aerobic respiration · glucose · energy