_______ is a cyclic series of eight reactions involved in the catabolism of acetyl-CoA that yields eight molecules of NADH and two molecules of FADH₂.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key components mentioned in the problem: a cyclic series of eight reactions, catabolism of acetyl-CoA, and production of NADH and FADH2 molecules.
2. Recall that the catabolism of acetyl-CoA through a cyclic pathway is a central metabolic process in aerobic respiration.
3. Recognize that the pathway producing eight NADH and two FADH2 molecules per cycle is the Krebs cycle (also known as the citric acid cycle or TCA cycle).
4. Understand that the Krebs cycle involves a series of enzyme-catalyzed reactions that oxidize acetyl-CoA to CO2 while reducing NAD+ and FAD to NADH and FADH2, respectively.
5. Conclude that the blank in the problem should be filled with the name of this cycle, which is the Krebs cycle.

Key Concepts

Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle)

The citric acid cycle is a series of eight enzymatic reactions that oxidize acetyl-CoA to produce energy-rich molecules. It generates NADH and FADH2, which are essential for ATP production in the electron transport chain. This cycle is central to cellular respiration in aerobic organisms.

Acetyl-CoA

Acetyl-CoA is a key metabolic intermediate formed from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It enters the citric acid cycle by combining with oxaloacetate to form citrate, initiating the cycle. Acetyl-CoA links glycolysis and fatty acid oxidation to energy production.

NADH and FADH2 Production

NADH and FADH2 are electron carriers produced during the citric acid cycle. They transport high-energy electrons to the electron transport chain, where their energy is used to generate ATP. The cycle yields eight NADH and two FADH2 molecules per acetyl-CoA molecule oxidized.