Mitochondria and Cellular Respiration

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to mitochondria, cellular respiration, glycolysis, and fermentation.

Cristae

Short, finger-like projections formed by the folding of the inner membrane of a mitochondrion, providing a large surface area for ATP production.

Matrix

The fluid-filled space within the inner membrane of a mitochondrion, containing proteins and chemicals needed to break down carbohydrates and high-energy molecules.

Glycolysis

The process of oxidizing glucose to release energy in the form of ATP, occurring in the cytoplasm and not requiring oxygen.

Aerobic cellular respiration

An oxidation reaction involving a series of enzyme-catalyzed reactions that transfer electrons from high-energy molecules, mainly glucose, utilizing oxygen.

Acetyl CoA

A molecule created from pyruvate that enters the Krebs cycle for further processing.

Krebs Cycle

A series of reactions that process acetyl CoA, extracting electrons and hydrogen ions, and producing ATP, CO2, and NADH.

Electron Transport Chain (ETC)

A series of molecules that accept and pass on electrons, ultimately producing a large amount of ATP and using oxygen as the final electron acceptor.

Fermentation

A metabolic process that converts sugar to acids, gases, or alcohol in the absence of oxygen, allowing for the recycling of NAD+ for glycolysis.

Lactate Fermentation

A form of fermentation where pyruvate is reduced to lactate, occurring in both simple and complex organisms.

Ethanol Fermentation

A process in which pyruvate is reduced to ethanol and CO2, occurring in yeast and some bacteria.