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Multiple Choice
The citric acid cycle requires which of the following three molecules as inputs?
A
Glucose, ADP, and NADP+
B
Pyruvate, ATP, and NADH
C
Lactate, CoA, and GTP
D
Acetyl-CoA, NAD+, and FAD
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of the citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle, in cellular respiration. It is a series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to release stored energy through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA derived from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Identify the primary inputs required for the citric acid cycle. The cycle begins with the combination of acetyl-CoA with oxaloacetate to form citrate, which is then metabolized through a series of steps.
Recognize that acetyl-CoA is the main substrate that enters the citric acid cycle. It is derived from pyruvate, which is produced from glucose during glycolysis, and then converted to acetyl-CoA.
Understand the role of NAD+ and FAD as electron carriers. During the cycle, these molecules are reduced to NADH and FADH2, respectively, as they accept electrons. These reduced forms are then used in the electron transport chain to generate ATP.
Note that the correct inputs for the citric acid cycle are acetyl-CoA, NAD+, and FAD, as they are essential for the cycle's function in energy production.