Which of the following equations best represents alcoholic fermentation?

• A. C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6\,O_2 \rightarrow 6\,CO_2 + 6\,H_2O + 36\,ATP
• B. C_6H_{12}O_6 \rightarrow 2\,C_3H_6O_3 + 2\,ATP
• C. C_6H_{12}O_6 \rightarrow 2\,C_2H_5OH + 2\,CO_2 + 2\,ATP
• D. 6\,CO_2 + 6\,H_2O \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6\,O_2

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the process of alcoholic fermentation. Alcoholic fermentation is a type of anaerobic respiration where glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) is converted into ethanol (C₂H₅OH), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and a small amount of ATP. This process occurs in yeast and some microorganisms.
2. Step 2: Analyze the given equations. The first equation represents aerobic respiration, which requires oxygen (O₂) and produces carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), and a large amount of ATP. The second equation represents lactic acid fermentation, where glucose is converted into lactic acid (C₃H₆O₃) and ATP. The third equation represents alcoholic fermentation, and the fourth equation represents photosynthesis.
3. Step 3: Identify the correct equation for alcoholic fermentation. The correct equation should show glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) being converted into ethanol (C₂H₅OH), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and ATP, which matches the third equation: C₆H₁₂O₆ → 2C₂H₅OH + 2CO₂ + 2ATP.
4. Step 4: Compare the products of alcoholic fermentation with the other processes. Aerobic respiration produces water and a large amount of ATP, lactic acid fermentation produces lactic acid, and photosynthesis produces glucose and oxygen. Only alcoholic fermentation produces ethanol and carbon dioxide.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the third equation, C₆H₁₂O₆ → 2C₂H₅OH + 2CO₂ + 2ATP, best represents alcoholic fermentation based on the products and the anaerobic nature of the process.