Question

There are 38 molecules of ATP produced in aerobic respiration and how many are formed outside the mitochondria?

• A. 2
• B. 20
• C. 4
• D. 14

Answer 1

The correct option is A 2

Aerobic cellular respiration is a gradual process that prevents energy loss as heat.

Glycolysis is the breakdown of glucose to two molecules of pyruvate; occurs outside the mitochondria, which yields 2 ATP molecules.

Enzymes for the Krebs cycle are located in the fluid-filled matrix of the mitochondria. Therefore, pyruvate diffuses into mitochondria and the gets converted into acetyl CoA to enter citric acid cycle.

During citric acid cycle, 36 ATP molecules are produced. So, all together there are 38 molecules of ATP produced in aerobic respiration and 2 ATP are formed outside the mitochondria. Thus, option A is correct.