Question

What molecules determines whether pyruvic acid will undergo fermentation or the Krebs Cycle

Answer 1

The presence or absence of oxygen determines whether pyruvic acid undergoes fermentation or enters the Krebs Cycle.

Step-by-step explanation:

The decision of whether pyruvic acid will undergo fermentation or enter the Krebs Cycle is determined by the presence or absence of oxygen. If oxygen is present, pyruvate is converted into acetyl CoA and enters the Krebs Cycle. This process occurs in the mitochondria and produces ATP, NADH, and FADH2. On the other hand, in the absence of oxygen, pyruvate is converted into lactate or ethanol through fermentation, which occurs in the cytoplasm.