Question

In aerobic respiration, the first CO2 is liberated during ______.

• A. Oxidation of pyruvic acid
• B. Decarboxylation of oxalosuccinic acid
• C. Decarboxylation of a ketoglutaric acid
• D. Alcoholic fermentation

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Oxidation of pyruvic acid

In aerobic respiration, the first CO2 is liberated during oxidation of pyruvate. Here pyruvate a 3C compound is broken down to acetate, a 2C compound and linked to CoA to form acetyl CoA. The Carbon lost from pyruvate is released as CO2. And the acetyl CoA formed is funneled into the Kreb's cycle.