Anaerobic glycolysis leads to the accumulation of which substance?

Anaerobic glycolysis is a metabolic process that occurs in the absence of oxygen, where glucose is broken down to produce energy quickly for high-intensity activities. During this process, glucose is converted into pyruvate, and when oxygen is limited, pyruvate is further converted into lactic acid.

The accumulation of lactic acid is significant in anaerobic glycolysis because it can lead to muscle fatigue and discomfort during prolonged high-intensity exercise. The production of lactic acid allows for a rapid supply of energy without the need for oxygen, which is crucial when immediate energy demands exceed the capacity of aerobic processes.

Other options like glucose, oxygen, and carbon dioxide do not accumulate as a result of anaerobic glycolysis. Glucose is the substrate used in this process; oxygen is depleted rather than accumulated; and while carbon dioxide is produced during metabolism, it does not specifically accumulate from anaerobic glycolysis since it primarily results from aerobic respiration. Thus, lactic acid is the substance most clearly associated with anaerobic glycolysis.