Explain how the lactic acid system contributes to energy production during a 200 m sprint. (4 marks)
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Sample Answer
- During the 200 m sprint, glucose is broken down without oxygen through glycolysis to produce ATP for sustained high-intensity muscle contractions.
- This anaerobic process creates lactic acid as a by-product which accumulates in the working muscles causing fatigue.
- The lactic acid system can maintain high-intensity performance for up to 60-90 seconds before waste products significantly impair muscle function.
- As a 200 m sprint typically takes 20-25 seconds, this system provides the majority of energy required after the initial ATP-PCr stores are depleted at around 10 seconds.
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Sample Answer
- During the 200 m sprint, glucose is broken down without oxygen through glycolysis to produce ATP for sustained high-intensity muscle contractions.
- This anaerobic process creates lactic acid as a by-product which accumulates in the working muscles causing fatigue.
- The lactic acid system can maintain high-intensity performance for up to 60-90 seconds before waste products significantly impair muscle function.
- As a 200 m sprint typically takes 20-25 seconds, this system provides the majority of energy required after the initial ATP-PCr stores are depleted at around 10 seconds.