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Chapter 20: Problem 26

What is glycolysis?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Glycolysis is a metabolic process where one molecule of glucose is broken down to form two molecules of pyruvate, two molecules of ATP, two molecules of water, and two molecules of NADH. This process is significant in producing energy for cellular activities and is foundational in the metabolic processes of most organisms.

Step by step solution

01

Define the Term

Glycolysis is a series of enzymatic reactions in the cytoplasm of the cell that convert glucose, a hexose sugar, into pyruvate, a three-carbon compound, generating energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH).
02

Explain the Purpose

The primary purpose of glycolysis is to generate usable energy for cellular activities. This process forms the preliminary stage in cellular respiration in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions.
03

Describe the Process

Glycolysis consist of ten steps, split into two phases: the investment phase and the payoff phase. The investment phase uses ATP to activate glucose, which is then cleaved into two three-carbon molecules. Then, in the payoff phase, the three-carbon molecules are converted to pyruvate, generating ATP and NADH as by-products.
04

Detail the Products Formed

One glucose molecule breaks down into two molecules of pyruvate, two molecules of water, two molecules of ATP, and two molecules of NADH.
05

Mention Some Applications

Glycolysis is critical in cellular respiration and plays a pivotal role in the metabolic processes of most organisms, including both humans and bacteria. Another significant aspect is its regulation as it's linked to many diseases, such as cancer and diabetes.

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