5.6.2 The Link Reaction

Question 1

What is pyruvate oxidised to and what is produced in this process?

Answer 1

• Pyruvate is oxidised to acetate and NADH is produced in the process.

Question 2

What molecule does acetate combine with to produce acetyl coenzyme A?

Answer 2

• coenzyme A.

Question 3

Describe how acetyl coenzyme A is made in the link reaction? (4)

Answer 3

• Pyruvate converts two acetate molecules where decarboxylation occurs causing carbon dioxide to leave. Two NAD molecules convert to two NADH and four hydrogen molecules leave. Two of the acetate molecules bind to two coA to form acetyl coenzyme A.