Which of the following biological processes explains why human muscles often feel sors or "cramped" after a sudden intense bout of physical exercise?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2 i.e. Accumulation of Lactic Acid.
During sudden or intense physical exercise, the body's demand for energy exceeds the oxygen supply available to the muscles. To compensate, muscle cells switch from aerobic respiration to anaerobic respiration. In this process, glucose is broken down without oxygen, resulting in the production of lactic acid as a byproduct.
The buildup of lactic acid in the muscle tissues increases acidity, which interferes with muscle contraction and causes the characteristic sensation of soreness, fatigue, or cramping. Once the intensity decreases and oxygen levels normalize, the lactic acid is eventually transported to the liver and broken down.