Chapter 23, Problem 23.63P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The formation of 10 molecules of ATP from the metabolism of the two carbons of acetyl CoA should be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Aerobic respiration occurs in two steps:

• Glycolysis
• Citric acid cycle

Glycolysis is the first step that forms pyruvate as given below:

  ${\text{Glucose + 2ATP + 2NAD}}^{\text{+}}{\text{ + 4ADP + 2P}}_{\text{i}}\stackrel{}{\to }{\text{ 2 Pyruvate + 4ATP + 2NADH + 2H}}^{\text{+}}$

In the presence of oxygen means aerobic respiration, this pyruvate enters the Krebs cycle and extracts energy in the form of electrons transfer. Electrons are transferred from the pyruvate to the receptors like NAD⁺, GDP, and FAD and CO₂ gas is formed as the waste product.