Glycolysis is the first step of cellular respiration, breaking down glucose into 2 pyruvate molecules. The term means 'breaking down sugar,' specifically glucose.
Where does glycolysis occur within the cell?
Glycolysis occurs in the cytoplasm, outside of the mitochondria.
How many carbon atoms are in a glucose molecule and how are they distributed after glycolysis?
Glucose has 6 carbon atoms, which are split into two pyruvate molecules, each containing 3 carbon atoms.
Does glycolysis require oxygen to function?
No, glycolysis can occur with or without oxygen.
How many phases are there in glycolysis and what are they called?
There are two phases: the energy investment phase and the energy harvest phase.
What happens during the energy investment phase of glycolysis?
The cell uses 2 ATP molecules to produce 2 Glyceraldehyde 3 Phosphate (G3P) molecules.
What is the intermediate molecule between the two phases of glycolysis?
Glyceraldehyde 3 Phosphate (G3P) is the intermediate molecule.
What are the main products of the energy harvest phase?
The energy harvest phase produces 4 ATPs and 2 NADH molecules.
What is the net gain of ATP from glycolysis?
The net gain is 2 ATP molecules, since 2 are used and 4 are produced.
What are the end products of glycolysis?
The end products are 2 pyruvate molecules, 2 NADH, and a net gain of 2 ATP.
Where do the pyruvate molecules go after glycolysis in eukaryotic cells?
They are transported to the mitochondrial matrix for further steps in cellular respiration.
What mnemonic can help remember the phases of glycolysis?
The mnemonic is 'Gary invests to harvest his profits and travel to Mexico.'
What does the 'invest' part of the mnemonic refer to?
It refers to the energy investment phase, where 2 ATPs are used.
What does the 'harvest' part of the mnemonic refer to?
It refers to the energy harvest phase, where energy is produced as ATP and NADH.
Why is glycolysis unique among the stages of cellular respiration?
It is the only stage that occurs outside the mitochondria and does not require oxygen.