Glycolysis

Definition

Glycolysis is the metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate, releasing energy and producing ATP. It takes place in the cytoplasm of the cell and does not require oxygen.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Glycolysis consists of 10 steps divided into two phases: the energy investment phase and the energy payoff phase.
2. The net gain from glycolysis is 2 ATP molecules and 2 NADH molecules per molecule of glucose.
3. Glycolysis produces two molecules of pyruvate from one molecule of glucose.
4. This process occurs in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions.
5. Key enzymes involved include hexokinase, phosphofructokinase, and pyruvate kinase.

Review Questions

• What are the two main phases of glycolysis?
• How many ATP molecules are net gained from glycolysis per molecule of glucose?
• Where in the cell does glycolysis take place?

Related terms

Pyruvate: The end product of glycolysis, which can enter the Krebs cycle under aerobic conditions.

ATP:

Adenosine triphosphate, the main energy currency of the cell produced during glycolysis.

NADH:

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, a coenzyme that carries electrons during cellular respiration.