Question

The above flow chart shows the three steps of glucose breakdown in different conditions. Which of the given steps is responsible for muscle cramps?
(a) Step I
(b) Step II
(c) Step III
(d) Both (a) and (b)

Answer 1

Hint: Glucose is made by plants and is a simple sugar which is the most important monosaccharide and is used to make cellulose in cell walls which is the most vital carbohydrate and glucose provides energy to all organisms.

Complete answer:
Step II is responsible for muscle cramps in the flowchart for glucose breakdown in different conditions. The breakdown of glucose during anaerobic respiration forms lactate and the cells which make the ATP during the process helps in providing energy to the chemical reactions in the body. The process is known as anaerobic due to the lactate which does not use oxygen in its formation and is known as anaerobic metabolism. The ATP production during the formation of lactate is faster and increases the capacity up to 50% for satisfying the needs of energy anytime exercise intensity. The deposition of lactic acid on the muscles can cause muscle fatigue and muscle cramps.
The contractions of muscles require ATP and the sources of the muscle fibres are glycolysis, cellular respiration, ATP and phosphocreatine. A little amount of ATP is present in the muscles for immediate use and phosphocreatine provides high energy ATP molecules which are present in low levels in the muscles for producing energy. A byproduct of anaerobic respiration which is lactic acid contributes towards muscle fatigue.

So, the correct answer is 'Step II'.

Note:
A muscle cramp is involuntary and can occur in any muscle of the leg and feet which are common and does not relax. Dehydration and not getting enough blood to the muscles are some of the reasons for muscle cramps which includes dehydration and the compression of nerves.