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Multiple Choice
Which molecule serves as the starting compound for glycolysis?
A
Lactate
B
Pyruvate
C
Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate
D
Glucose
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of glycolysis: Glycolysis is the metabolic pathway that breaks down glucose into pyruvate, producing ATP and NADH in the process. It is the first step in cellular respiration.
Identify the starting molecule: Glycolysis begins with glucose, a six-carbon sugar molecule, which is the primary substrate for this pathway.
Clarify why other options are incorrect: Lactate is a product of anaerobic respiration, pyruvate is the end product of glycolysis, and fructose-1,6-bisphosphate is an intermediate formed during glycolysis, not the starting molecule.
Relate glucose to its role in glycolysis: Glucose is phosphorylated in the first step of glycolysis to form glucose-6-phosphate, which is then further processed through the pathway.
Summarize the importance of glucose: Glucose serves as the universal starting compound for glycolysis, providing the energy and carbon skeletons needed for cellular metabolism.