Question

Define the site of cellular respiration? Describe the mechanism of cellular respiration.

Answer 1

Cellular respiration:

1. Cellular respiration is the process in which the simpler form of food combines with oxygen and energy is produced.
2. The energy produced in the form of ATP is the used to carry out various life processes.
3. Mitochondria is the site cellular respiration.

Mechanism of cellular respiration:

The cellular respiration takes place in four steps.

1. Glycolysis: In this step, the 6-Carbon molecule glucose is converted into 2 pyruvate molecules (3 carbon molecule). ATp is made and NAD⁺ is converted into NADP.
2. Pyruvate oxidation: This process occurs in mitochondria. The pyruvate molecule is converted into Acetyle CoA. Carbon dioxide is released and NADH is generated.
3. Citric acid cycle: The acetyle CoA reacts with 4-Carbon molecule and undergoes cyclic reactions. Here ATP, NADP and FADH₂ is produced and CO₂ is released.
4. Oxidative Phosphorylation: The NADH and FADH₂ release their electrons and get back to empty forms (NAD⁺ and FADH). The electrons released create gradient and protons pump out of matrix. Protons flow back with the help of enzyme ATP synthatase, forming ATP. The oxygen accepts electron and takes up protons to form water.