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Anaerobic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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anaerobic

[รฆnษ™หˆroสŠbษชk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

biological processes

Anaerobic refers to the absence of oxygen. In biological contexts, it often describes processes or organisms that occur or exist without oxygen. Anaerobic respiration is a type of respiration that does not use oxygen and occurs in some microorganisms and in muscle cells during intense exercise. These organisms can obtain energy in low-oxygen environments, making them crucial for various ecological processes.

Synonyms

non-oxygen-dependent, oxygen-independent.

Examples of usage

  • Anaerobic bacteria thrive in deep sea environments.
  • Fermentation is an anaerobic process.
  • Anaerobic digestion is used in waste treatment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Certain bacteria thrive in anaerobic environments, helping with processes like decomposition.
  • Anaerobic digestion is a method of breaking down organic matter without oxygen, useful for waste treatment.

Health and Exercise

  • Anaerobic exercise, like sprinting or weightlifting, focuses on repeated short bursts of energy without relying on oxygen as the primary energy source.
  • Training in anaerobic sports can increase muscle strength and improve overall speed.

Environmental Science

  • Hypoxic zones, or 'dead zones,' in oceans occur when oxygen is depleted, leading to anaerobic conditions and harming marine life.
  • Anaerobic bacteria play a crucial role in nutrient cycling in soil, contributing to its health and fertility.

Pop Culture

  • In popular fitness culture, anaerobic workouts are often emphasized for muscle building and weight loss.
  • Certain documentaries highlight the importance of anaerobic processes in nature and their effects on ecosystems.

Origin of 'anaerobic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'an' meaning 'without' and 'aerobic' meaning 'air or oxygen.'
  • It was first used in the early 20th century to describe organisms that donโ€™t need oxygen.

The term 'anaerobic' is derived from the Greek roots 'ana-', meaning 'without', and 'aerobios', meaning 'life in air'. The first known use of the term dates back to the late 19th century when scientists began to study microorganisms in more depth. As microbiology developed, the concept of anaerobic organisms became crucial for understanding processes such as fermentation and anaerobic respiration. Ongoing research in fields such as environmental science and medicine continues to explore the role of anaerobic microorganisms in ecosystems and human health.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,911, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.