Which of the following is not a product of glycolysis?

• A. ATP
• B. Pyruvate
• C. NADH
• D. Carbon dioxide

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of glycolysis: Glycolysis is a metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate, releasing energy and reducing equivalents in the form of ATP and NADH.
2. Identify the products of glycolysis: The main products of glycolysis are ATP, pyruvate, and NADH. These are generated through a series of enzymatic reactions that occur in the cytoplasm of the cell.
3. Recognize what is not produced in glycolysis: Carbon dioxide is not a product of glycolysis. It is typically produced during the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), which occurs after glycolysis in aerobic respiration.
4. Consider the location and conditions of glycolysis: Glycolysis occurs in the cytoplasm and does not require oxygen, hence it does not produce carbon dioxide, which is a byproduct of aerobic processes.
5. Review the overall equation of glycolysis: The simplified equation for glycolysis is: \( C_6H_{12}O_6 + 2NAD^+ + 2ADP + 2P_i \rightarrow 2C_3H_4O_3 + 2NADH + 2ATP \). Note the absence of carbon dioxide in this equation.