Final answer:
Each oxidization of one pyruvate in the TCA cycle results in the production of two carbon dioxide molecules, one ATP, three NADH, and one FADH₂. The TCA cycle plays a vital role in energy production and synthesis of non-essential amino acids within the cell.
Step-by-step explanation:
When one pyruvate is oxidized in the TCA cycle, specifically the products are two carbon dioxide molecules, one ATP, three NADH, and one FADH₂. The TCA cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle or citric acid cycle, is a crucial part of cellular respiration and takes place inside the mitochondria. Pyruvate, which is derived from glucose through glycolysis, enters the mitochondria and is converted into acetyl-CoA. This acetyl-CoA then enters the TCA cycle.
The cycle begins with the combination of acetyl-CoA with oxaloacetate to form citrate, which then undergoes a series of transformations. During these transformations, high-energy electrons are captured by NAD+ and FAD to form NADH and FADH₂, which are essential for ATP production in the electron transport chain. Moreover, for every acetyl-CoA processed, one molecule of ATP (or GTP, depending on the cell type) is produced via substrate-level phosphorylation.
The compounds formed in the TCA cycle also play a role in synthesizing non-essential amino acids, making the cycle amphibolic. In summary, the complete oxidation of one pyruvate via the TCA cycle significantly contributes to the cell's energy production and biochemical synthesis pathways.