Question

Because the TCA cycle is associated with degradation and synthesis, the pathway is said to be

A) anabolic.
B) amphibolic.
C) catabolic.
D) bipolar.
E) amphipathic.

Answer 1

The TCA cycle, being involved in both the breakdown of molecules for energy production and the synthesis of new molecules, is an amphibolic pathway, correctly described by option B) amphibolic.

Step-by-step explanation:

The TCA cycle, also known as the citric acid cycle or Krebs cycle, plays a central role in cellular metabolism. It serves both catabolic and anabolic processes, meaning it is involved in both the breakdown of molecules to produce energy and the synthesis of new molecules. This dual function classifies the TCA cycle as an amphibolic pathway, as it accommodates the flux of metabolites in both directions, crucial for the cell's energy balance. Given that the TCA cycle involves the degradation of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy (a catabolic role) and has a role in the synthesis of carbohydrates, amino acids, and fats (an anabolic role), the correct answer to the question is B) amphibolic.