Key Concepts in Cellular Respiration

Mitochondria

Organelles in cells that convert food and oxygen into energy, known as the powerhouse of the cell.

Cellular Respiration

The process by which cells break down food and oxygen to produce ATP.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

A molecule that stores energy in cells, functioning like a rechargeable battery.

Aerobic Organisms

Organisms that require oxygen to live and grow, such as humans.

Anaerobic Respiration

A process that allows organisms to release energy without oxygen, used by some bacteria.

Glycolysis

The first stage of cellular respiration that breaks down glucose into pyruvate.

Pyruvate

A three-carbon compound produced during glycolysis that enters the mitochondria for further energy extraction.

Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle)

The second stage of cellular respiration that processes acetyl-CoA and produces ATP, NADH, and CO2.

Electron Transport Chain

A series of protein complexes in the mitochondria that transfer electrons to create a proton gradient for ATP synthesis.

ATP Synthase

An enzyme that produces ATP by using the energy from protons moving back into the mitochondrial matrix.

Proton Gradient

A difference in proton concentration across a membrane that drives ATP synthesis.

Oxidative Phosphorylation

The final stage of cellular respiration where ATP is produced using energy from electrons transferred through the electron transport chain.

NADH and FADH2

Carrier molecules that transport electrons and protons to the electron transport chain during cellular respiration.

Fermentation

An anaerobic process that converts sugars to acids, gases, or alcohol, used in food production.

Homeostasis

The state of steady internal conditions maintained by living organisms.