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Multiple Choice
Which of the following processes occurs in the cytoplasm of a eukaryotic cell during cellular respiration?
A
Citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle)
B
Glycolysis
C
Electron transport chain
D
Oxidative phosphorylation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of cellular respiration: Cellular respiration is the process by which cells convert glucose into energy (ATP). It consists of several stages: glycolysis, the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), and oxidative phosphorylation, which includes the electron transport chain.
Identify the location of each process: Glycolysis occurs in the cytoplasm, while the citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation (including the electron transport chain) occur in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells.
Focus on glycolysis: Glycolysis is the first step of cellular respiration and takes place entirely in the cytoplasm. It involves the breakdown of glucose into two molecules of pyruvate, producing ATP and NADH in the process.
Clarify why other processes do not occur in the cytoplasm: The citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation require enzymes and structures found in the mitochondria, such as the inner mitochondrial membrane for the electron transport chain.
Conclude that glycolysis is the correct answer: Based on the location of cellular respiration processes, glycolysis is the only process listed that occurs in the cytoplasm of a eukaryotic cell.