Q. 18.34 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

After running a marathon, a runner has muscle pain and cramping. What might have occurred in the muscle cells to cause this?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Lactate produced from the pyruvate during the running causes muscle pain

Step 1: Given information

We need to find the cause of muscle pain and cramps after running a marathon

Step 2: Explanation

We know that

Running a marathon, like any rigorous exercise, rapidly depletes the oxygen stored in muscle cells. Pyruvate is converted to lactate in anaerobic circumstances. Lactate buildup causes muscle soreness and cramping, among other symptoms.