How can the knowledge about fermentation explain the origin of muscle cramps and pains after intense physical exertion?
A typical fermentation process because of oxygen scarcity happens in the muscle tissue. Under intense use muscles demand too much energy (ATP) and consume much more oxygen to make that energy. High consumption leads to oxygen scarcity and the muscle cells start to make lactic fermentation trying to satisfy their energetic requires. In this situation muscle pain, cramps and fatigue are because of the lactic acid released by fermentation.