Krebs Cycle (7.5)

Question 1

Give the definition for decarboxylation

Answer 1

A chemical reaction that removes the carboxyl group and releases carbon dioxide

Question 2

Give the definition of dehydrogenation

Answer 2

A chemical process that removes hydrogen from organic molecules

Question 3

Locations of the link reaction and Krebs cycle: a) state where these processes take place
B) state why these processes take place here

Answer 3

Both take place in the mitochondrial matrix and it happens here because it contains all the enzymes needed for the reactions and coenzymes

Question 4

Describe what happens during the link reaction

Answer 4

Pyruvate is decarboxylated releasing carbon dioxide and hydrogen ions are taken to reduce NAD. This results in the production of acetate

Question 5

Describe what happens during the Krebs cycle

Question 6

State the role of reduced NAD and reduced FAD

Answer 6

These are produced during the Kreb’s cycle and are then used during the electron transport chain for oxidative phosphorylation. Electrons and H ions are used to create an electrochemical gradient.