Respiratory quotient (RQ)

Definition

The respiratory quotient (RQ) is the ratio of carbon dioxide produced to oxygen consumed during cellular respiration. It provides insight into which macronutrients are being metabolized for energy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. An RQ value of 1 indicates carbohydrate metabolism.
2. An RQ value around 0.7 signifies fat metabolism.
3. Proteins have an RQ value of approximately 0.8.
4. The RQ can be used to assess metabolic states and energy balance in the body.
5. An RQ higher than 1 may indicate lipogenesis or overfeeding.

Review Questions

Related terms

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): The rate at which the body uses energy while at rest to maintain vital functions such as breathing and keeping warm.

Aerobic Respiration: A metabolic process that uses oxygen to convert glucose into ATP, producing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.

Anaerobic Respiration:

A form of respiration using electron acceptors other than oxygen, resulting in less efficient ATP production compared to aerobic respiration.