What is the ultimate fate of the majority of hydrogen atoms released during the citric acid cycle?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the fate of hydrogen atoms involved in the citric acid cycle, specifically what happens to these hydrogen atoms within the metabolic process.
Answer
Hydrogen atoms form NADH and FADH2, proceeding to the electron transport chain.
The majority of hydrogen atoms released during the citric acid cycle are transferred to electron carriers NAD+ and FAD, forming NADH and FADH2, which then proceed to the electron transport chain where they contribute to ATP production.
Answer for screen readers
The majority of hydrogen atoms released during the citric acid cycle are transferred to electron carriers NAD+ and FAD, forming NADH and FADH2, which then proceed to the electron transport chain where they contribute to ATP production.
More Information
The hydrogen atoms released are crucial for energy production as they help drive the electron transport chain by donating electrons, ultimately helping produce ATP through oxidative phosphorylation.
Tips
A common mistake is to think that these hydrogen atoms are released as free hydrogen gas or remain in the cycle. They are actually crucial for electron transport and energy production.
Sources
- The citric acid cycle | Cellular respiration (article) - Khan Academy - khanacademy.org
- 4.3: Citric Acid Cycle and Oxidative Phosphorylation - bio.libretexts.org
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