cellular respiration

Cellular Respiration

A process cells use to make energy by breaking down glucose.

ATP

The main energy carrier in cells, like a rechargeable battery.

Glycolysis (Stage 1)

The first step of cellular respiration, where glucose is broken into two pyruvate molecules and a little ATP is made.

Oxidation of Pyruvate (Stage 2)

The second step, where pyruvate is prepared for the Krebs cycle by losing a carbon and forming acetyl-CoA

Krebs Cycle (Stage 3)

 A cycle that breaks down acetyl-CoA, releasing CO₂ and making energy carriers (NADH and FADH₂).

Electron Transport Chain (ETC) (Stage 4)

The final step where energy carriers (NADH and FADH₂) create lots of ATP using oxygen.

Aerobic Respiration

Cellular respiration that requires oxygen to make energy

Anaerobic Respiration

Cellular respiration that does not need oxygen and produces less energy.

Lactic Acid Fermentation

An anaerobic process where pyruvate is turned into lactic acid, creating a little ATP.

NADH & FADH₂

Molecules that carry energy (electrons) to the ETC to help make ATP

Pyruvate

A small molecule made from glucose during glycolysis, used in later steps of respiration.