Aerobic respiration is an example of which type of metabolic process?

• A. Photosynthesis
• B. Catabolic pathway
• C. Anabolic pathway
• D. Fermentation

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the two main types of metabolic pathways: catabolic and anabolic. Catabolic pathways involve breaking down molecules to release energy, while anabolic pathways involve building larger molecules from smaller ones, requiring energy input.
2. Step 2: Recall the process of aerobic respiration. It involves breaking down glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) into smaller molecules, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O), while releasing energy in the form of ATP.
3. Step 3: Compare aerobic respiration to the characteristics of catabolic and anabolic pathways. Since aerobic respiration breaks down glucose to release energy, it aligns with the definition of a catabolic pathway.
4. Step 4: Eliminate the other options. Photosynthesis is an anabolic pathway because it builds glucose from CO₂ and H₂O using energy from sunlight. Fermentation is a catabolic process but occurs in the absence of oxygen, unlike aerobic respiration.
5. Step 5: Conclude that aerobic respiration is an example of a catabolic pathway because it involves the breakdown of molecules to release energy.