Question

Lack of oxygen in muscles often leads to cramps among cricketers. This results due to

• A. Conversion of pyruvate to ethanol
• B. Conversion of pyruvate to glucose
• C. Non-conversion of glucose to pyruvate
• D. Conversion of pyruvate to lactic acid

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Conversion of pyruvate to lactic acid

The correct option is D.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Oxygen deprivation in muscles results in cramps as lack of gas results in the production of lactic acid in muscles.
2. A muscle cramp occurs when the muscle contracts involuntarily and does not relax. It usually affects the skeletal muscles.
3. When the muscles require energy and lack oxygen, pyruvate is converted into lactic acid in the muscle cells.
4. In the absence of oxygen, pyruvate is reduced to form lactate by the lactate dehydrogenase enzyme.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Fermentation is the conversion of pyruvate into ethanol.
2. Pyruvate is decarboxylated to form acetaldehyde which is then converted into ethanol.

Option B:

The conversion of pyruvate into glucose is known as gluconeogenesis.

Option C:

It is an irrelevant option.

Final answer: Lack of oxygen in muscles often leads to cramps among cricketers. This results due to the conversion of pyruvate to lactic acid.