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Multiple Choice
The Krebs cycle begins with the addition of acetyl CoA to which of the following?
A
Citrate
B
Succinate
C
Fumarate
D
Oxaloacetate
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that the Krebs cycle, also known as the citric acid cycle, is a series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy through the oxidation of acetate derived from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into carbon dioxide.
Recognize that the cycle begins with the combination of acetyl CoA, a two-carbon molecule, with a four-carbon molecule called oxaloacetate to form citrate, a six-carbon molecule.
Identify that oxaloacetate is regenerated at the end of the cycle, allowing the process to continue in a cyclic manner.
Note that the other options listed (citrate, succinate, fumarate) are intermediates in the Krebs cycle but are not the starting molecule that combines with acetyl CoA.
Conclude that the correct answer is oxaloacetate, as it is the molecule that combines with acetyl CoA to initiate the Krebs cycle.