Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the primary difference between aerobic and anaerobic processes in cellular respiration?
72
views
8. Respiration
Review of Aerobic Cellular Respiration
Multiple Choice
The final electron acceptor of aerobic cellular respiration is _____.
A
carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\))
B
glucose (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\))
C
NAD+
D
oxygen (\(O_2\))
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of aerobic cellular respiration: It is a process where cells generate energy (ATP) by breaking down glucose (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)) in the presence of oxygen (\(O_2\)). This process occurs in the mitochondria and involves multiple steps, including glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and the electron transport chain.
Learn about the electron transport chain: This is the final stage of aerobic respiration, where electrons are transferred through a series of protein complexes embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane. These electrons are passed along to generate a proton gradient that drives ATP synthesis.
Identify the role of the final electron acceptor: In the electron transport chain, electrons are transferred from electron carriers like NADH and FADH2 to oxygen (\(O_2\)). Oxygen acts as the final electron acceptor, combining with electrons and protons to form water (\(H_2O\)).
Eliminate incorrect options: Carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)) is a byproduct of the citric acid cycle, not an electron acceptor. Glucose (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)) is the initial substrate for cellular respiration, not the final electron acceptor. NAD+ is an electron carrier, not the final acceptor.
Conclude that oxygen (\(O_2\)) is the correct answer: Oxygen is essential for aerobic respiration because it ensures the continuation of the electron transport chain by accepting electrons and preventing the backup of electron carriers.
Related Videos
Related Practice
