Cellular Respiration and Fermentation

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cellular respiration and fermentation, including processes, structures, and chemical equations.

What is the primary output of cellular respiration that powers most cellular work?

ATP (adenosine triphosphate)

What are the two main pathways of cellular respiration?

Aerobic respiration and anaerobic respiration.

What is glycolysis?

The process of breaking down glucose into two molecules of pyruvate in the cytosol.

What does fermentation regenerate that is essential for glycolysis to continue?

NAD+.

What is the role of NAD+ in cellular respiration?

NAD+ acts as an oxidizing agent that accepts electrons during glycolysis and the citric acid cycle.

What is a reducing agent in redox reactions?

The substance that donates electrons, thus being oxidized.

What is the main purpose of the citric acid cycle?

To complete the breakdown of glucose derivatives and harvest electrons for ATP production.

How does oxidative phosphorylation produce ATP?

By using the energy from the electron transport chain and a proton gradient through ATP synthase.

What is the overall equation for cellular respiration using glucose?

C6H12O6 + 6 O2 → 6 CO2 + 6 H2O + energy (ATP + heat).

Which type of respiration is utilized by yeast to produce ethanol?

Alcohol fermentation.