Question

Which of the following chemical equations best describes the reduction of the coenzyme NAD+? A) NAD+ + 2H -> NADH + H+ B) ATP + NADH -> ADP + NAD+ C) CO2 + NADH -> Glucose + NAD+ D) H2O + NAD+ -> O2 + NADH

Answer 1

The reduction of NAD+ is correctly described by the equation NAD+ + 2H -> NADH + H+, where NAD+ gains electrons and hydrogen to become NADH.

Step-by-step explanation:

The chemical equation that best describes the reduction of the coenzyme NAD+ is A) NAD+ + 2H -> NADH + H+. This equation represents the process by which NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide in its oxidized form) accepts two hydrogen atoms (including their electrons) to become NADH, its reduced form. One hydrogen atom (along with two electrons) is added to the nicotinamide ring of NAD+, and the second hydrogen (a proton) is released into the solution as H+. This reaction is critical in cellular respiration and other metabolic pathways where NAD+ accepts electrons from organic molecules, thereby acting as an electron carrier and playing a vital role in energy production.