Aerobic Respiration and Mitochondrial Structure

Flashcards covering key concepts related to aerobic respiration and mitochondrial structure as per the lecture notes.

Glucose

The main respiratory substrate used by cells.

Aerobic respiration

The process of breaking down a respiratory substrate in order to produce ATP using oxygen.

Equation for aerobic respiration

Glucose + Oxygen → Carbon dioxide + Water + Energy (C6H12O6 + 6 O2 → 6 CO2 + 6 H2O + 2870 kJ).

Phosphorylation

The process of adding a phosphate group to ADP to form ATP.

ATP

Adenosine triphosphate; provides energy for biological processes in cells.

Glycolysis

The first stage of aerobic respiration, occurring in the cell cytoplasm.

Link reaction

The second stage of aerobic respiration, occurring in the matrix of the mitochondria.

Krebs cycle

The third stage of aerobic respiration, taking place in the matrix of the mitochondria.

Oxidative phosphorylation

The fourth stage of aerobic respiration, occurring at the inner membrane of the mitochondria.

Enzymes

Enzymes are proteins that catalyse biochemical reactions without being used up. Enzymes can act inside or outside of cells.

NAD and FAD

Coenzymes that transfer hydrogen between molecules during respiration. They are primarily electron carriers.

Coenzyme A

A coenzyme responsible for the transfer of acetate (acetic acid) between molecules.

Mitochondria

Organelles with two phospholipid membranes, responsible for aerobic respiration. They produce energy in the form of ATP.

Outer mitochondrial membrane

Smooth and permeable to several small molecules.

Inner membrane of mitochondria

Folded (cristae) membrane, less permeable, and the site of the electron transport chain.

Intermembrane space

Area with low pH due to high concentration of protons; essential for ATP synthesis.

Matrix of mitochondria

A fluid area inside the inner membranes, containing ribosomes, enzymes, and mitochondrial DNA.