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Multiple Choice
Why is glycolysis believed to have evolved early in the history of life?
A
It produces a large amount of ATP compared to other metabolic pathways.
B
It is dependent on the presence of mitochondria.
C
It requires complex enzymes that evolved later in life.
D
It occurs in the cytoplasm and does not require oxygen.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of glycolysis: Glycolysis is a metabolic pathway that breaks down glucose to produce energy in the form of ATP. It is considered one of the most ancient biochemical processes.
Recognize the location and conditions of glycolysis: Glycolysis occurs in the cytoplasm of cells and does not require oxygen, making it accessible to early life forms that existed before the atmosphere contained significant oxygen levels.
Consider the evolutionary implications: Since glycolysis does not require complex organelles like mitochondria, it could have been utilized by primitive cells, which supports the idea that it evolved early in the history of life.
Evaluate the simplicity of glycolysis: The enzymes involved in glycolysis are relatively simple compared to those required for other metabolic pathways, suggesting that glycolysis could have been one of the first energy-producing processes to evolve.
Reflect on the significance of glycolysis in anaerobic conditions: Early Earth had an anaerobic environment, and glycolysis provides a mechanism for ATP production without oxygen, which would have been crucial for the survival of early life forms.