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Multiple Choice
Most NADH molecules generated during cellular respiration are produced during which stage?
A
Fermentation
B
The electron transport chain
C
Glycolysis
D
The citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of NADH in cellular respiration: NADH is a high-energy electron carrier that plays a crucial role in transferring electrons to the electron transport chain, where ATP is produced.
Review the stages of cellular respiration: Cellular respiration consists of glycolysis, the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), and the electron transport chain. Fermentation is an alternative pathway used in anaerobic conditions.
Analyze glycolysis: During glycolysis, glucose is broken down into pyruvate, and a small amount of NADH is produced. This stage occurs in the cytoplasm.
Examine the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle): In this stage, pyruvate is further oxidized, and a significant amount of NADH is generated. This process occurs in the mitochondrial matrix and is the primary source of NADH during cellular respiration.
Clarify the electron transport chain: The electron transport chain uses NADH to transfer electrons and produce ATP, but it does not generate NADH itself. Therefore, the citric acid cycle is the correct answer for the stage that produces the most NADH.