Respiration- The link reaction

Question 1

What happens in between glycolysis and the link reaction?

Answer 1

-When oxygen is available pyruvate will enter the mitochondrial matrix and aerobic respiration will continue
-Pyruvate moves across the double membrane of the mitochondria via active transport-
It requires a transport protein and a small amount of ATP

Question 2

Where does the link reaction take place?

Answer 2

the matrix of the mitochondria

Question 3

Describe what happens in the link reaction

Answer 3

-Pyruvate is oxidised by enzymes to produce acetate, carbon dioxide
-Requires the reduction of NAD to NADH
-Combination with coenzyme A to form acetyl coenzyme A

Question 4

What are the products of the link reaction?

Answer 4

Acetyl CoA
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Reduced NAD (NADH)

Question 5

Define coenzyme

Answer 5

a molecule that helps an enzyme carry out its function but is not used in the reaction itself

Question 6

What does pyruvate contain in a substantial amount?

Answer 6

chemical energy that can be further utilised in respiration to produce more ATP