Which of the following statements about glycolysis is correct?
- AIt occurs in mitochondria
- BIt requires oxygen
- CIt produces carbon dioxide directly
- DIt takes place in the cytoplasm
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: (d) It takes place in the cytoplasm
Explanation
Glycolysis is the first stage of respiration. One glucose molecule (6 carbons) is broken into two molecules of pyruvate (3 carbons each), with a net gain of 2 ATP and 2 NADH.
- It takes place in the cytoplasm, not in the mitochondria.
- It does not need oxygen, so it occurs in both aerobic and anaerobic respiration.
- It gives out no carbon dioxide; CO₂ is released later, in the link reaction and the Krebs cycle.