Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

Which characteristic is not associated with fermentation?

1. It is anaerobic

2. It requires glucose

3. It produces energy

4. It requires oxygen

The correct answer is: It requires oxygen

Fermentation is a metabolic process that occurs in the absence of oxygen, making it anaerobic. This process involves the conversion of sugars—such as glucose—into energy, as well as byproducts like alcohol or lactic acid, depending on the type of fermentation. Given that fermentation does not require oxygen and actually occurs in its absence, the characteristic that is not associated with fermentation is the requirement for oxygen. Whether in yeast or muscle cells, fermentation is an alternative pathway to generate energy when oxygen is limited or unavailable. This understanding is crucial in various biological and industrial contexts, including the production of alcohol, bread, and lactic acid in muscles during intense exercise.