VCE Biology Unit 3: Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration

photosynthesis

The process by which a cell captures energy in sunlight and uses it to make food.

photosynthesis equation

6H2O + 6CO2 --> C6H12O6 + 6O2

aerobic respiration

Respiration that requires oxygen.

General equation: C6H12O6 + 6O2 --> 6CO2 + 6H2O

What is glycolysis

Glycolysis is the breakdown of glucose by enzymes. Glycolysis is the first stage of aerobic respiration and produces a small amount of energy when complete.

Where does glycolysis occur?

The cytosol of the cell.

inputs of glycolysis

glucose, NAD+ and ADP/Pi

outputs of glycolysis

pyruvate, NADH and 2 ATP

Krebs Cycle location

In the matrix of the mitochondria

What is the Krebs Cycle?

The second stage of aerobic respiration that produces a small amount of energy

Krebs cycle inputs

pyruvate (or acetyl CoA), NAD, FAD, ADP/Pi

Krebs cycle outputs

CO2, NADH, FADH2 and ATP.

2 ATP per glucose molecule and 1 ATP per pyruvate molecule.

What is the Electron Transport Chain (ETC)?

A sequence of electron carrier molecules (membrane proteins) that shuttle electrons during the redox reactions that release energy used to make ATP.

It produces the most ATP out of the three stages of aerobic respiration.

Electron Transport Chain location

It occurs in the cristae of the mitochondria.

electron transport chain inputs

NADH, FADH2, O2 and ADP/Pi

Electron Transport Chain outputs

ATP, H2O, NAD and FAD.

About 32-34 ATP is produced here.

Anaerobic respiration

Respiration that does not require oxygen.

Anaerobic respiration in animals

Glucose is converted to 2 lactic acid molecules which also creates 2 ATP per glucose used.

It occurs during glycolysis as it does not require oxygen.

anaerobic respiration in yeast

In yeast, glucose is converted to 2 ETHANOL (C2H5OH) molecules and 2 CARBON DIOXIDE (CO2) molecules. This also creates 2 ATP per glucose.

This also occurs during glycolysis.