Multiple Choice
In the process of cellular respiration, what do organisms primarily break down to produce ATP?
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8. Respiration
Introduction to Cellular Respiration
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which gas is produced as a byproduct during cellular respiration in most eukaryotic cells?
A
Carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$)
B
Nitrogen ($\mathrm{N_2}$)
C
Oxygen ($\mathrm{O_2}$)
D
Hydrogen ($\mathrm{H_2}$)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the process of cellular respiration: Cellular respiration is a metabolic pathway that converts glucose into energy (ATP) in the presence of oxygen. It occurs in three main stages: glycolysis, the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), and oxidative phosphorylation.
Identify the byproducts of cellular respiration: During the citric acid cycle, carbon atoms from glucose are released as carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$). This is a key byproduct of the process.
Recall the role of oxygen ($\mathrm{O_2}$): Oxygen is consumed during cellular respiration as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain, but it is not produced as a byproduct.
Eliminate other options: Nitrogen ($\mathrm{N_2}$) and hydrogen ($\mathrm{H_2}$) are not involved in significant amounts during cellular respiration in eukaryotic cells, so they cannot be byproducts.
Conclude that carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$) is the correct answer: Carbon dioxide is released during the citric acid cycle and is expelled from the cell as a waste product of cellular respiration.
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