Question

Is pyruvate oxidation, aerobic or anaerobic?

Answer 1

Pyruvate:

1. It is a compound that is produced at the end of glycolysis in which glucose undergoes incomplete oxidation.
2. Glycolysis does not require oxygen and takes place in the cytoplasm.
3. It is transported from the cytoplasm to mitochondria for further oxidation.
4. Pyruvate oxidation is an anaerobic process as it does not require oxygen for the entire glycolysis reaction.
5. At the end of this process, it is converted to CO₂ and H₂O.
6. In fermentation it is converted into lactic acid or ethanol which is incomplete oxidation.
7. Therefore, pyruvate oxidation is an anaerobic process.