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Write a brief note on each of the following items in relation to respiration - Leaving Cert Biology - Question c - 2012
Question c
Write a brief note on each of the following items in relation to respiration. (i) Glycolysis. (ii) Acetyl Co-enzyme A. (iii) Adenosine triphosphate. (iv) Electron t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Write a brief note on each of the following items in relation to respiration - Leaving Cert Biology - Question c - 2012
Step 1
Glycolysis
Answer
Glycolysis is the first stage of respiration that occurs in the cytoplasm. It is an anaerobic process that begins with glucose and proceeds through a series of enzymatic reactions. The primary outcome of glycolysis is the production of pyruvate, which can then enter aerobic respiration. This process leads to a relatively low energy release, producing a small amount of ATP and NADH.
Step 2
Acetyl Co-enzyme A
Answer
Acetyl Co-enzyme A is formed from pyruvate in a reaction that occurs aerobically. This molecule is a 2-carbon group that plays a crucial role in cellular respiration by entering the Krebs cycle within the mitochondrion. Acetyl CoA is essential for the oxidation and energy extraction that occurs in subsequent metabolic pathways.
Step 3
Adenosine triphosphate
Answer
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is known as the primary energy currency of the cell. It contains high-energy bonds that store energy within its structure. ATP is produced during cellular respiration, particularly in steps involving substrate-level phosphorylation. The energy stored in ATP is released when it is converted to adenosine diphosphate (ADP), facilitating a large ATP production in stage 2 of respiration.
Step 4
Electron transport chain
Answer
The electron transport chain (ETC) is a critical component of aerobic respiration located in the inner mitochondrial membrane. It carries high-energy electrons, mainly derived from NADH and FADH2. As electrons move through the chain, they help pump protons across the membrane, creating a proton gradient. This gradient drives the formation of water and the production of a significant amount of ATP, culminating in high energy release.