Final answer:
Through the combined processes of glycolysis, Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain, one glucose molecule can yield up to 36 ATP, along with 6 NADH and 2 FADH2 in the Krebs cycle.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the Krebs cycle, the energy production per glucose molecule comprises different molecules of high-energy compounds. Once a molecule of glucose has completed the glycolysis and Krebs cycle processes, it yields a total of 2 ATP, 6 NADH, and 2 FADH2. These products are then used in the electron transport chain (ETC) to produce additional ATP. The NADH generated in the process typically contributes to the production of approximately 3 ATP per molecule, while FADH2 contributes approximately 2 ATP per molecule because it enters the ETC at a later point.
When calculating the total energy yield, we must also consider the ATP derived from glycolysis and the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl-CoA, which together produce a net yield of 4 ATP. After accounting for the conversion of NADH and FADH2 through the ETC, the total number of ATP generated from the complete oxidation of one glucose molecule can reach up to 36 ATP, considering all stages of cellular respiration including glycolysis, Krebs cycle, and the ETC.