Aerobic respiration uses oxygen to generate energy, while anaerobic respiration happens without using oxygen. Aerobic respiration produces carbon dioxide, water and ATP (energy) from glucose and oxygen. Anaerobic respiration produces lactic acid and ATP (energy) from glucose in animals. In plants anaerobic respiration produces ethanol, carbon dioxide and ATP (energy) from glucose. Aerobic respiration releases large amounts of energy. Anaerobic respiration releases small amounts of energy quickly.