Cellular Respiration and Fermentation in the Generation of ATP

These flashcards cover the key concepts and terminology related to cellular respiration and fermentation.

Cell metabolism

All of the chemical reactions that take place in a cell, organized into metabolic pathways.

Glycolysis

The first phase of cellular respiration that occurs in the cytoplasm, splitting glucose into two pyruvate molecules.

Transition reaction

Occurs within the mitochondria, removes carbon from pyruvate as CO2, generating acetyl CoA and NADH.

Citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle)

Occurs in the mitochondria, where acetyl CoA enters, producing ATP, FADH2, NADH, and releasing CO2.

Electron transport chain

The final phase of cellular respiration occurring across the inner membrane of mitochondria, requiring oxygen and producing ATP.

NADH

A carrier of high-energy electrons produced during glycolysis and the citric acid cycle.

Fermentation

The breakdown of glucose without oxygen, taking place in the cytoplasm, resulting in only two ATP.

Lactic acid fermentation

A type of fermentation occurring in muscles during strenuous exercise when oxygen supply is low, leading to lactic acid accumulation.

ATP (adenosine triphosphate)

The energy currency of the cell, produced during the phases of cellular respiration.

Catabolic pathways

Pathways that involve the breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy.