What are the features of aerobic metabolism?

Aerobic metabolism is characterized by the use of oxygen to convert glucose and other substrates into energy, primarily in the form of ATP. This process occurs in the mitochondria and comprises three main stages: glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain. It is highly efficient, yielding approximately 36-38 ATP molecules per glucose molecule, and produces carbon dioxide and water as byproducts. Aerobic metabolism supports sustained, moderate-intensity activities and is essential for long-term energy production in aerobic organisms.