The sensation of fatigue in the muscles after prolonged strenuous physical work is caused by
- Aa decrease in the supply of oxygen
- Bminor wear and tear of muscle fibres
- Cthe depletion of glucose
- Dthe accumulation of lactic acidCorrect
Explanation
The correct option is D because during prolonged strenuous physical work, the body requires energy faster than oxygen can be supplied to the muscles. This leads to anaerobic respiration, a process where glucose is broken down without sufficient oxygen. A byproduct of this process is the accumulation of lactic acid in the muscle tissues. This buildup increases acidity in the muscles, which interferes with their ability to contract and results in the physical sensation of fatigue and soreness. While factors like glucose depletion and oxygen decrease are involved in the overall process of exhaustion, the specific sensation of muscle fatigue during or immediately after intense exercise is primarily attributed to lactic acid accumulation.

Related questions
More UPSC Prelims practice from the same subject and topic.
- Prelims 2000GS1science-and-technology
A noise level of 100 decibels would correspond to
- Prelims 2000GS1science-and-technology
A ‘black hole’ is a body in space which does not allow any radiation to come out. This property is due to its
- Prelims 2000GS1science-and-technology
Consider the following features of newer models of motor cars: I. Radial tyres II. Streamlined body III. Multipoint fuel injection IV. Catalytic converter with exhaust Which of these features make the…
- Prelims 2000GS1science-and-technology
Fluorescent tubes are fitted with a choke. The choke coils
- Prelims 2000GS1science-and-technology
When a CD (Compact Disc used in audio and video systems) is seen in sunlight, rainbow like colours is seen. This can be explained on the basis of the phenomenon of
- Prelims 2000GS1science-and-technology
Assertion (A): A man standing on a completely frictionless surface can propel himself by whistling. Reason (R): If no external force acts on a system, its momentum cannot change.