Question

Why is glycolysis referred to as a common pathway for both aerobic and anaerobic respiration?

Answer 1

Glycolysis:

• In simple words, glycolysis is the process where sugar or glucose is broken down to get energy.
• The glucose molecule is converted into pyruvic acid through glycolysis.
• The site of glycolysis is the cytoplasm of the cell.

Glycolysis as a common pathway:

• Glycolysis is referred to as the common pathway for both aerobic and anaerobic respiration.
• Glycolysis is the initial step that is similar in aerobic and anaerobic respiration; hence it is called the common pathway.
• The resulting pyruvate molecule is used in both types of respiration to either convert into acid or alcohol (Anaerobic) or produce carbon dioxide or water molecules (aerobic).