Where does glycolysis occur in the cell?

• A. Mitochondria
• B. Cytoplasm
• C. Endoplasmic Reticulum
• D. Nucleus

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of glycolysis: Glycolysis is the first step in the breakdown of glucose to extract energy for cellular metabolism.
2. Identify the location of glycolysis: Glycolysis occurs in the cytoplasm of the cell, where glucose is converted into pyruvate.
3. Differentiate between cellular locations: The mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and nucleus have different functions. The mitochondria are involved in the later stages of cellular respiration, the endoplasmic reticulum is involved in protein and lipid synthesis, and the nucleus houses the cell's genetic material.
4. Recognize the importance of the cytoplasm: The cytoplasm is the site of many metabolic pathways, including glycolysis, because it contains the necessary enzymes and substrates.
5. Conclude that glycolysis occurs in the cytoplasm: Based on the understanding of cellular structures and their functions, glycolysis takes place in the cytoplasm, not in the mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, or nucleus.