lactate
Definition
Lactate is a chemical compound with the formula CH3CH(OH)COO−. It is a type of acid that is produced in the body when glucose is broken down anaerobically. Anaerobic respiration is a type of respiration that does not require oxygen. It occurs when the body is working hard and does not have enough oxygen to meet its energy demands.
Lactate is produced in the muscles when they are working hard. It is then transported to the liver, where it is converted back into glucose. Glucose can then be used to provide energy for the body.
High levels of lactate in the blood can be a sign of exercise-induced muscle damage or a medical condition such as lactic acidosis. Lactic acidosis is a condition in which the body produces too much lactate. This can lead to a buildup of acid in the blood, which can be dangerous.
How can the word be used?
Lactate is a salt or ester of lactic acid.
Different forms of the word
Noun: Lactate is a salt or ester of lactic acid. It is produced in the body during anaerobic respiration when there is not enough oxygen available to produce glucose.
Verb: To lactate is to produce milk. This is done by mammals, such as cows, sheep, and goats.
Adjective: Lactating is the adjective form of the verb "lactate". It means "producing milk".
Adverb: Lactatorily is the adverb form of the verb "lactate". It means "in a way that is related to lactation".
Etymology
The word "lactate" comes from the Latin word "lactis", which means "milk". It was first used in English in the 17th century to refer to a salt or ester of lactic acid.
The Latin word "lactis" is related to the Greek word "γάλα" (gala), which also means "milk". The Greek word "γάλα" is also the root of the English words "galactagogue" and "galactorrhea".
Question
What does lactate mean?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the role of lactate in the human body during exercise. How does the production of lactate affect muscle performance and overall athletic performance?
Answer:
Lactate, also known as lactic acid, plays a significant role in the human body's response to exercise, especially during intense or prolonged physical activity.
During exercise, muscles require energy to contract, and this energy is mainly produced through the breakdown of glucose in a process called glycolysis. When oxygen is limited, as is the case during intense exercise, glycolysis leads to the production of lactate as a byproduct. Contrary to its reputation as a waste product causing fatigue and muscle soreness, lactate actually serves as a vital energy source.
Lactate can be utilised by other muscles or converted back into glucose in the liver through a process called the Cori cycle. It provides a rapid source of energy to muscles, allowing them to sustain performance even when oxygen levels are low.
While lactate buildup was previously thought to be a primary cause of muscle fatigue, recent research suggests that it's actually a protective mechanism. It prevents the muscle from becoming too acidic, which can impair function. Athletes with better lactate clearance tend to perform better, indicating its importance in overall athletic performance.
In summary, lactate is a crucial component in the body's energy metabolism during exercise. Its role in providing energy and its connection to muscle performance highlights its significance in understanding how the body responds to physical activity.