How many moles of ATP are generated from the catabolism of fructose (by glycolysis) in
(b) muscle cells?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context: Glycolysis is the metabolic pathway that breaks down glucose or fructose into pyruvate, generating ATP in the process. In muscle cells, glycolysis occurs anaerobically (without oxygen).
2. Recall the key stoichiometry of glycolysis: For each molecule of fructose (C6H12O6) that enters glycolysis, it is converted into two molecules of pyruvate. During this process, a net of 2 ATP molecules are produced per molecule of fructose.
3. Set up the relationship: The number of moles of ATP generated is directly proportional to the number of moles of fructose metabolized. Specifically, for every 1 mole of fructose, 2 moles of ATP are produced.
4. Write the mathematical expression: If the number of moles of fructose is denoted as \( n_{\text{fructose}} \), then the number of moles of ATP generated is \( n_{\text{ATP}} = 2 \times n_{\text{fructose}} \).
5. To find the exact number of moles of ATP, substitute the given number of moles of fructose (if provided) into the equation \( n_{\text{ATP}} = 2 \times n_{\text{fructose}} \). If no specific value is given, the relationship remains as described.

Key Concepts

Glycolysis

Glycolysis is a metabolic pathway that converts glucose or other sugars, such as fructose, into pyruvate, producing energy in the form of ATP. This process occurs in the cytoplasm of cells and consists of ten enzyme-catalyzed reactions. In muscle cells, glycolysis is crucial for generating ATP quickly, especially during anaerobic conditions.

ATP Yield from Fructose

The catabolism of fructose through glycolysis yields a specific amount of ATP. Fructose is phosphorylated and enters the glycolytic pathway, ultimately producing two molecules of pyruvate. Each molecule of pyruvate can generate a net gain of 2 ATP during glycolysis, leading to a total of 4 ATP from one molecule of fructose, considering the initial investment of 2 ATP.

Muscle Cell Metabolism

Muscle cells have a unique metabolic profile that allows them to efficiently produce ATP during physical activity. They rely heavily on glycolysis for rapid ATP production, especially under anaerobic conditions. This is important for muscle contraction and energy supply during intense exercise, where oxygen availability may be limited.