Step 1: Concept
During intense muscle activity, the body undergoes various metabolic processes that produce byproducts. One such process is anaerobic respiration in muscles, which leads to the accumulation of lactic acid.
Step 2: Meaning
Lactic acid is a byproduct formed when muscles lack sufficient oxygen for complete aerobic metabolism. This condition, known as anaerobic glycolysis, results in the production of pyruvate, which is then converted into lactic acid and accumulates in muscle cells during high-intensity exercise.
Step 3: Analysis
To understand why lactic acid needs to be removed from muscles, we need to consider its role in causing physiological fatigue. Lactic acid accumulation leads to a decrease in pH levels within the muscle tissue due to its acidic nature. This change in pH can interfere with muscle contraction and relaxation processes, leading to discomfort and fatigue.
Carbon dioxide is also produced during intense exercise but is primarily removed through respiration rather than being directly related to overcoming physiological fatigue caused by lactic acid accumulation.
Glycogen and nitrogen are not directly involved in the process of removing byproducts that cause fatigue. Glycogen is a stored form of glucose used for energy, while nitrogen is an element found in various compounds but does not play a direct role in this context.
Lactic acid, therefore, needs to be removed from muscles to alleviate physiological fatigue caused by its accumulation during intense exercise.
Step 4: Conclusion
The body must remove lactic acid from the muscles to overcome physiological fatigue resulting from anaerobic glycolysis and subsequent lactic acid production.
Final Answer: (D)