YMCA L2 Anatomy - Energy Systems

ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, is the correct answer. It is the energy currency of the cell and is produced during the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. ATP is used by cells to carry out various functions, such as muscle contraction, active transport, and synthesis of macromolecules. ADP, glucose, and CP are not the energy-producing molecules, although they play important roles in cellular metabolism.

The ATP-PC system is the primary energy system used for short bursts of high-intensity activity. A 50-meter sprint is a very short and explosive activity that requires a quick burst of energy. The ATP-PC system provides immediate energy by breaking down stored ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and creatine phosphate. This system is ideal for activities that last only a few seconds, such as a sprint, where energy needs to be rapidly available.

Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose to provide energy. Glucose is the primary source of fuel for the body's cells. When carbohydrates are consumed, they are broken down into glucose during digestion and then absorbed into the bloodstream. Glucose is then transported to cells throughout the body, where it is used for energy production. This process is essential for maintaining normal bodily functions and providing the energy needed for physical activity. Protein, fat, and vitamins do not directly provide energy in the same way that carbohydrates do.

The ATP-PC system is the primary energy system used during short, intense bursts of activity, such as sprinting or weightlifting. It relies on the immediate availability of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and creatine phosphate to provide energy. The ATP-PC system can sustain activity for up to 15 seconds before additional energy systems, such as anaerobic glycolysis, need to take over. Therefore, the correct answer is "Up to 15 seconds."

The marathon would use the aerobic system as its primary source of energy because it is a long-distance endurance activity that requires sustained energy production over a prolonged period of time. The aerobic system utilizes oxygen to break down carbohydrates and fats, providing a continuous supply of energy for activities that are of longer duration and lower intensity, such as marathon running. In contrast, weight lifting, 50 meter sprint, and 500 meter row are more intense and shorter in duration, relying primarily on the anaerobic system for energy production.

Carbohydrates provide approximately 50-60% of total energy. They are the body's primary source of fuel and are efficiently converted into glucose, which is used by cells for energy. Carbohydrates are found in foods like grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. A balanced diet typically includes carbohydrates to meet the body's energy needs and support overall health and functioning.

Protein is broken down into amino acids in order to provide energy. When the body needs energy, it breaks down proteins into their constituent amino acids through a process called protein catabolism. These amino acids can then be used by the body to produce energy through various metabolic pathways. Amino acids can also be used for other purposes, such as building new proteins or as precursors for the synthesis of other molecules in the body.

Protein provides approximately 10-15% of the total energy. This is because protein is one of the three macronutrients, along with carbohydrates and fats, that contribute to the body's energy needs. While carbohydrates and fats are the primary sources of energy, protein also plays a role in providing energy, especially during periods of prolonged exercise or when the body's carbohydrate stores are depleted. However, it is important to note that the exact percentage may vary depending on an individual's specific dietary needs and activity level.

The lactic acid system is the primary source of energy for short, intense bursts of exercise. The 500 metre row is a high-intensity activity that requires a quick burst of energy, making it the most likely activity to use the lactic acid system. The 50 metre sprint is also a short, intense burst of exercise, but the 500 metre row is a longer duration activity, making it a better fit for the lactic acid system. The 5 mile jog and marathon are both endurance activities that require sustained energy production, which is more reliant on aerobic metabolism.

Fats are broken down into fatty acids to provide energy. Fatty acids are the building blocks of fats and can be broken down through a process called beta-oxidation. This process occurs in the mitochondria of cells and involves the breakdown of fatty acids into acetyl-CoA molecules, which can then enter the citric acid cycle to produce energy in the form of ATP. Therefore, fatty acids are the correct answer as they are the primary source of energy derived from the breakdown of fats.

Fats are stored as adipose tissues because adipose tissues are specialized connective tissues that store excess energy in the form of fat. They are made up of adipocytes, which are cells that can enlarge and shrink as they store or release fat. When we consume more calories than our body needs, the excess energy is converted into triglycerides and stored in adipose tissues. This stored fat can later be used as a source of energy when needed.

Fat is primarily used as a fuel for the production of energy in the aerobic system. The aerobic system relies on oxygen to break down fats and convert them into ATP, which is the main energy source for the body. This process is more efficient and sustainable compared to the other systems mentioned. The lactic acid system primarily uses carbohydrates as fuel, while the ATP-PC system relies on stored phosphocreatine for short bursts of energy. The anaerobic system also utilizes carbohydrates as fuel, but without the presence of oxygen.

Fats provide approximately 30% of the total energy in our diet. They are a concentrated source of energy, providing more than double the amount of energy per gram compared to carbohydrates and proteins. Fats are essential for our body as they help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, provide insulation and protection to organs, and act as a long-term energy storage. However, it is important to consume fats in moderation and choose healthier options such as unsaturated fats found in nuts, seeds, and avocados, rather than saturated and trans fats found in fried foods and processed snacks.

Carbohydrates are primarily stored in the body as glycogen. Glycogen is a complex carbohydrate that is stored in the liver and muscles. It serves as a readily available source of energy for the body. When the body needs energy, it can quickly break down glycogen into glucose molecules to fuel various metabolic processes. This storage form of carbohydrates allows the body to maintain a stable blood sugar level and ensures a constant supply of energy when needed.

Protein is stored as fat in the body. When the body consumes more protein than it needs for immediate use, the excess protein is converted into fat through a process called deamination. This fat is then stored in adipose tissues throughout the body. This conversion of protein into fat allows the body to store energy for later use.

The lactic acid system lasts for approximately 30-40 seconds. During intense exercise, when the body cannot supply enough oxygen to meet the energy demands, it relies on the lactic acid system to produce energy. This system breaks down glucose without oxygen, resulting in the production of lactic acid. However, lactic acid buildup can only be sustained for a limited time before it becomes too acidic for the muscles to function effectively. Therefore, the lactic acid system lasts for about 30-40 seconds before fatigue sets in.