What function does increased oxygen consumption after exercise serve?

• A. It directly stimulates muscle contraction during recovery.
• B. It helps restore ATP and creatine phosphate levels in muscle cells.
• C. It decreases the removal of carbon dioxide from the body.
• D. It increases the rate of glycolysis to produce more lactic acid.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of oxygen consumption after exercise: After intense physical activity, the body enters a recovery phase where it requires additional oxygen to restore balance. This is often referred to as 'excess post-exercise oxygen consumption' (EPOC).
2. Recall the role of ATP and creatine phosphate in muscle cells: ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the primary energy currency of the cell, and creatine phosphate serves as a quick energy reserve to regenerate ATP during short bursts of activity.
3. Connect oxygen consumption to ATP and creatine phosphate restoration: During recovery, oxygen is used to replenish ATP and creatine phosphate levels that were depleted during exercise. This process occurs in the mitochondria through aerobic respiration.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Increased oxygen consumption does not directly stimulate muscle contraction during recovery, nor does it increase glycolysis to produce more lactic acid. Instead, it helps remove lactic acid and carbon dioxide from the body while restoring energy reserves.
5. Conclude the correct function: The increased oxygen consumption after exercise primarily serves to restore ATP and creatine phosphate levels in muscle cells, supporting recovery and preparing the muscles for future activity.