Question

Different steps in cellular respiration occur in different locations in the mitochondria. Which of the following does not properly match a step of respiration to its proper location?

a) molecule of CO2 released: matrix
b) two carbons manipulated through Krebs cycle: matrix
c) energy transferred from NADH and FADH2 to ATP: inner mitochondrial membrane
d) a gradient of hydrogen ions phosphorylates ATP: inner mitochondrial membrane
e) All of the above are correct matches between function and location."

Answer 1

The molecule of CO2 released in cellular respiration occurs in the matrix of the mitochondria.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is a) molecule of CO2 released: matrix.

In cellular respiration, the molecule of CO2 is released during the intermediate stage, which occurs in the matrix of the mitochondria. This stage involves the transformation of pyruvate to Acetyl CoA, where each pyruvate molecule loses one carbon atom in the form of CO2. The Krebs cycle, which manipulates two carbons, does take place in the matrix. The energy transfer from NADH and FADH2 to ATP occurs in the inner mitochondrial membrane during oxidative phosphorylation, while the gradient of hydrogen ions phosphorylates ATP in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Therefore, the correct match between function and location that does not properly match is a molecule of CO2 released in the matrix.