Lactic acid

 

How is lactic acid produced?

Glucose is a substance that gives energy to cells through chemical reactions. When you run fast, your cells use glucose without oxygen. This is called anaerobic respiration. It makes one waste product: lactic acid. Lactic acid has the formula C₃H₆O₃. It has carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms.

 

Lactic acid can cause cramps in your muscles when you run fast. It hurts a lot. After running, you breathe more oxygen. The oxygen breaks down the lactic acid in your muscles. It makes carbon dioxide and water. Then the cramps go away.

 

Some bacteria in your mouth also make lactic acid from glucose and other sugars. Lactic acid in your mouth can cause teeth to decay.

 

Summary:

 

• Anaerobic respiration makes lactic acid as a waste product.
• Lactic acid can build up in your muscles when you run fast, causing cramp.
• Lactic acid can also damage your teeth.