Chapter 3.4, Problem 20WDL

Summary Introduction

To determine:

Two general fates of pyruvic acid and the criterion for determining its fate.

Concept introduction:

Glucose is the ultimate source of energy in our body. It is so because our body recognizes glucose as the primary energy source. Among the energy sources from carbohydrates, proteins and fats, it is carbohydrates that are broken first for the purpose of energy generation by respiration. The first step in the process of energy generation is glycolysis, the end product of which is pyruvate, which is a three carbon stable organic compound.