Where does the citric acid cycle occur in eukaryotes?a. in the cytosol of cellsb. in the intermembrane space of mitochondriac. in the inner membrane of mitochondriad. in the matrix of mitochondria

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the location of the citric acid cycle within the cell.
2. Recall that the citric acid cycle is a key metabolic pathway that completes the breakdown of glucose derivatives.
3. Understand that the citric acid cycle occurs in a specific part of the mitochondria in eukaryotic cells.
4. Consider the structure of the mitochondria, which includes the outer membrane, intermembrane space, inner membrane, and matrix.
5. Determine that the citric acid cycle takes place in the matrix of the mitochondria, where enzymes and substrates are available for the cycle's reactions.

Key Concepts

Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle)

The citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle, is a series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy. It plays a crucial role in cellular respiration by oxidizing acetyl-CoA to produce ATP, NADH, and FADH2, which are essential for energy production.

Mitochondrial Structure

Mitochondria are double-membraned organelles found in eukaryotic cells, responsible for energy production. They consist of an outer membrane, an inner membrane, and an intermembrane space, with the matrix being the innermost compartment where the citric acid cycle occurs.

Location of the Citric Acid Cycle

In eukaryotic cells, the citric acid cycle occurs in the mitochondrial matrix. This location is critical as it provides the necessary environment and enzymes for the cycle to efficiently convert acetyl-CoA into energy-rich molecules, which are then utilized in the electron transport chain.