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The respiratory quotient (RQ) represents the ratio of carbon dioxide produced to oxygen consumed during respiration. For the reaction 2(C51H98O6) + 145O2 → 102CO2 + 98H2O + Energy, RQ is calculated as 102CO2 / 145O2 = 0.7. What can be inferred about the RQ for fatty acids?

1. The respiratory quotient is consistently 1.
2. The respiratory quotient is below 1 for fatty acids.
3. The respiratory quotient exceeds 1 for carbohydrates.
4. The respiratory quotient equals 1 for proteins.

Correct answer: The respiratory quotient is below 1 for fatty acids.

Solution

The respiratory quotient (RQ) is less than 1 for fatty acids because their oxidation requires more oxygen compared to the carbon dioxide released, as shown in the given equation. This is a characteristic feature of lipid metabolism.

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