Anaerobic Respiration: Definition & Yeast Fermentation Example

An example of anaerobic respiration is the fermentation of yeast. When yeast is deprived of oxygen, it switches to anaerobic respiration and begins to convert glucose into ethanol and carbon dioxide. This process is used in the production of alcoholic beverages, such as beer and wine.

The chemical equation for anaerobic respiration in yeast is:

$$ C6H12O6 (Glucose) → 2 C2H5OH (Ethanol) + 2 CO2 (Carbon dioxide) $$