Glycolysis Lecture Notes

Vocabulary flashcards covering the definition, location, steps, and net molecular products of glycolysis from handwritten lecture notes.

Glycolysis

A biochemical pathway that breaks down complex organic compounds to begin releasing the chemical energy stored in glucose and create ATP that the cell can use.

Anaerobic

A condition describing glycolysis indicating that no oxygen is needed for the process to occur.

Cytosol

The area in the cell (cytoplasm) where glycolysis takes place.

Step 1 of Glycolysis

Two ATP molecules energize the glucose molecule by lending a phosphate.

Step 2 of Glycolysis

The energized glucose molecule ($6\text{C}$) splits into two G3P molecules ($3\text{C}$).

Step 3 of Glycolysis

G3P releases energy by donating electrons ($e^-$) to $\text{NAD}^+$ to produce NADH while phosphates are added to G3P.

Step 4 of Glycolysis

Four ADP molecules receive a phosphate ($\text{P}$) from the G3Ps to produce 4 ATP.

Step 5 of Glycolysis

Two pyruvic acid molecules ($3\text{C}$) are formed from G3P as the end products.

Net ATP Gain of Glycolysis

A net gain of 2 ATP molecules for the cell, calculated as 4 ATP produced minus the 2 ATP used to initiate the pathway.

End Yield of Glycolysis

From 1 glucose molecule used, the cell gains a net of 2 ATP, 2 NADH (using 2 $\text{NAD}^+$), and 2 pyruvic acid molecules.