Match the term with its description. Match Term Definition Anaerobic respiration A) The production of energy without the presence of oxygen Pyruvate B) An organic molecule that occurs as an intermediate in many metabolic processes Aerobic respiration C) The chemical breakdown of a substance Fermentation D) The breakdown of food to create energy in the presence of oxygen

Option A, The production of energy without the presence of oxygen Pyruvate

Explanation:

In aerobic respiration, the pyruvate molecule after entering mitochondria is further broken down into carbon  dioxide and water in presence of oxygen. This releases a large amount of energy molecules, ATP. In case where oxygen is not present, pyruvate is broken down to release NAD+ ion and lactate acid is formed. This form of respiration , commonly known as fermentation occurs when one do rigorous exercise.

Hence, option A is better explanation of term Anaerobic respiration