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Correct Answer: fats
the correct completion for the statement "the oxidative system is the body's long-term energy system. it breaks down carbohydrates (glucose and glycogen) and __________________________ from the foods in order to synthesize atp." is "fats."
the oxidative system, also known as the aerobic system, is one of the three primary energy systems in the human body, alongside the phosphagen and glycolytic systems. this system is primarily utilized during prolonged periods of exercise or activities that last longer than a couple of minutes. its hallmark is the use of oxygen to convert nutrients from food into usable energy.
the oxidative system breaks down carbohydrates and fats into smaller molecules that can be used to produce adenosine triphosphate (atp), the chemical energy currency of the cell. carbohydrates are broken down into glucose and glycogen, while fats are broken down into fatty acids and glycerol. both of these processes occur in the mitochondria of cells, where oxygen is used to help convert these substrates into atp through a series of complex biochemical pathways, including the krebs cycle and the electron transport chain.
fats are a vital energy source for the oxidative system, especially during extended periods of low to moderate intensity exercise, when carbohydrate stores may start depleting. fats provide a more concentrated energy source, offering more than double the kilocalories per gram compared to carbohydrates (9 kcal/g for fats versus 4 kcal/g for carbohydrates). this makes fats an efficient fuel during enduring activities, although their breakdown process is slower compared to carbohydrates, requiring more oxygen for the same amount of energy produced.
good fats, like those found in olive oil and avocados, are not only important for energy production but also for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, hormonal balance, and cellular function. these unsaturated fats are considered healthier choices because they can help reduce inflammation and are associated with lower risks of heart diseases.
in summary, the oxidative system is crucial for long-term energy production, relying heavily on the breakdown of both carbohydrates and fats in the presence of oxygen to synthesize atp, which is essential for sustaining prolonged physical activities.
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