Final answer:
The 3rd process of aerobic glucose metabolism occurs in the mitochondria and involves the electron transport chain, which ultimately produces about 34 ATP molecules. These molecules are generated through chemiosmosis, driving ATP synthase to produce cellular energy in the form of ATP from the breakdown of glucose.
Step-by-step explanation:
The third process of aerobic glucose metabolism occurs in the mitochondria of the cell. This stage involves the electron transport chain and chemiosmosis, resulting in the net production of energy-storing molecules. Specifically, it produces approximately 34 ATP molecules, which feed into and power the electron transport chain established along the mitochondrial membrane. This chain, in turn, activates ATP synthase to make ATP, the energy currency of the cell.
During this process, NADH and FADH2, resulting from prior steps such as glycolysis and the Krebs cycle, donate electrons to the electron transport chain. As electrons move through the chain, they create a proton gradient across the membrane. The flow of protons back into the mitochondrial matrix through ATP synthase drives the synthesis of ATP. Together with the approximately 2 ATPs produced from glycolysis and 2 ATPs from the Krebs cycle, a total net gain of approximately 38 ATP molecules can be derived from the complete oxidation of one molecule of glucose in eukaryotic cells.