Question

In respiration pyruvic acid is

• A. Formed only when oxygen is available
• B. One of the products of Krebs’ cycle
• C. A result of protein breakdown
• D. Broken down into a two carbon fragment and $C{O}_2$

Answer 1

The correct option is D Broken down into a two carbon fragment and $C{O}_2$

Fate of pyruvic acid in aerobic respiration

Two molecules of pyruvic acid (3-carbon atom) is formed in the cytoplasm of the cell as a result of glycolysis.

Under aerobic conditions, this pyruvic acid formed is converted into a two carbon atom molecule called Acetyl CoA. The process of removal of carbon dioxide from pyruvic acid, which results in the formation of Acetyl CoA is called oxidative decarboxylation.

Final answer: (C) Broken down into a two carbon fragment and $C{O}_2$