Respiration Flashcards
What is glycolysis, and where does it occur?
Glycolysis is the initial step of cellular respiration that takes place in the cytoplasm. It involves breaking down one molecule of glucose into two molecules of pyruvate, generating a small amount of ATP and NADH.
Describe the Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle) in detail.
The Citric Acid Cycle occurs in the mitochondria. Acetyl-CoA enters the cycle and undergoes a series of reactions, producing ATP, NADH, FADH2, and carbon dioxide. It’s a critical step in extracting energy from glucose.
What is anaerobic respiration, and when does it occur?
Anaerobic respiration is respiration without oxygen. It occurs when oxygen levels are insufficient, leading to the production of lactic acid (in animals) or ethanol (in yeast) as byproducts.
How is respiration related to photosynthesis in terms of reactants and products?
The products of photosynthesis (glucose and oxygen) are the reactants of respiration, and vice versa. These processes are interconnected in the cycling of energy and matter in ecosystems.
Describe the role of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) in cellular respiration.
ATP is the primary energy currency of cells. It is generated in respiration and used to power various cellular processes, including muscle contraction, active transport, and biosynthesis.
Compare and contrast aerobic and anaerobic respiration.
Aerobic respiration requires oxygen and produces more ATP (up to 38 molecules per glucose) compared to anaerobic respiration. Anaerobic respiration occurs without oxygen and produces less ATP (2 molecules per glucose) but is faster.
