What is the correct order of the steps of cellular respiration?

Answer 1

The correct order of the steps of cellular respiration is as follows:

1. Glycolysis: This process occurs in the cytoplasm and breaks down glucose into pyruvate while producing a small amount of ATP and NADH.

2. Pyruvate Oxidation: This step occurs in the mitochondria, where pyruvate is converted into Acetyl-CoA, producing NADH and releasing carbon dioxide.

3. Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle): Also occurring in the mitochondria, Acetyl-CoA enters the Krebs cycle, which generates additional NADH and FADH2, as well as ATP (or GTP) and more carbon dioxide.

4. Electron Transport Chain (ETC): Located in the inner mitochondrial membrane, NADH and FADH2 donate electrons to the electron transport chain, leading to the generation of a proton gradient and the production of a significant amount of ATP via oxidative phosphorylation. Oxygen acts as the final electron acceptor, forming water.

These processes collectively convert glucose into ATP, which the cell uses for energy.