Cellular Respiration Questions and Answers Latest Version Graded A+

Cellular Respiration Questions and Answers Latest Version Graded A+ What is the first step of cellular respiration? The first step of cellular respiration is glycolysis, where glucose is broken down into pyruvate. Why is glucose important for cellular respiration? Glucose provides the energy-rich carbon molecules that are used to generate ATP during cellular respiration. Where does the citric acid cycle take place? The citric acid cycle takes place in the mitochondrial matrix. How many carbon atoms are in one molecule of glucose? One molecule of glucose contains six carbon atoms. What happens to pyruvate in the presence of oxygen? 2 In the presence of oxygen, pyruvate is converted into acetyl-CoA and enters the citric acid cycle. How does the body make energy when oxygen is low? When oxygen is low, the body uses anaerobic respiration or fermentation to produce small amounts of ATP. What molecule acts as the main energy currency of the cell? ATP is the main energy currency of the cell. Why is the inner membrane of mitochondria folded? The inner membrane is folded to increase surface area for the electron transport chain and ATP production. What is the role of water in cellular respiration? Water is formed as a waste product when oxygen accepts electrons and hydrogen ions at the end of the electron transport chain. How is carbon dioxide produced during cellular respiration? 3 Carbon dioxide is produced when carbon atoms are removed from molecules during the citric acid cycle. What is a major difference between glycolysis and the electron transport chain? Glycolysis occurs in the cytoplasm and does not require oxygen, while the electron transport chain occurs in mitochondria and needs oxygen. Why does NAD+ need to be regenerated during cellular respiration? NAD+ must be regenerated to continue glycolysis and the citric acid cycle, as it accepts electrons and becomes NADH. How do cells regulate the rate of cellular respiration? Cells regulate the rate of respiration based on energy demand, using feedback mechanisms that control enzyme activity. What happens to the electrons carried by NADH and FADH2? Electrons from NADH and FADH2 are transferred to the electron transport chain to help produce ATP.