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Multiple Choice
What is the main purpose of glucose catabolism in glycolysis?
A
To generate oxygen and water
B
To synthesize glucose from pyruvate
C
To produce ATP and pyruvate
D
To convert glucose into glycogen
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of glycolysis: Glycolysis is a metabolic pathway that breaks down glucose (a six-carbon sugar) into two molecules of pyruvate (a three-carbon compound). This process occurs in the cytoplasm of cells and is the first step in cellular respiration.
Identify the main products of glycolysis: The primary products of glycolysis are ATP (adenosine triphosphate), NADH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), and pyruvate. ATP is the energy currency of the cell, while NADH is used in other metabolic pathways to generate more ATP.
Recognize the role of ATP in glycolysis: During glycolysis, a net gain of two ATP molecules is produced per molecule of glucose. This ATP is used by the cell to perform various energy-requiring activities.
Understand the fate of pyruvate: Pyruvate, the end product of glycolysis, can be further metabolized in the presence of oxygen through the citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation to produce more ATP. In the absence of oxygen, pyruvate can undergo fermentation to lactate or ethanol, depending on the organism.
Conclude the main purpose: The main purpose of glucose catabolism in glycolysis is to produce ATP and pyruvate, which are essential for cellular energy and further metabolic processes.