Question

Glycolysis of one molecule of glucose produces 8 ATP molecules. How many ATP molecules are produced from glycolysis of 10 glucose molecules?

Short answer

80 ATP molecules are produced.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the problem

The problem asks how many ATP molecules are produced from glycolysis of 10 glucose molecules, given that 1 glucose molecule produces 8 ATP molecules in glycolysis.

Identify the known values

From the problem, we know that the production of ATP in glycolysis from a single glucose molecule is 8 ATP.

Determine the multiplier

Since there are 10 glucose molecules, the multiplier for the number of ATPs produced becomes 10.

Calculate total ATP production

Multiply the number of ATPs produced per glucose molecule by the number of glucose molecules: \[ 8 \text{ ATP/glucose} \times 10 \text{ glucose molecules} = 80 \text{ ATP} \]

Explain the result

By multiplying 8 ATPs from one molecule by 10 glucose molecules, we find that glycolysis produces a total of 80 ATP molecules.

Key concepts

ATP production

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is often called the energy currency of the cell. It powers various cellular processes. During glycolysis, ATP is both consumed and produced.
This process starts by investing two ATP molecules to kickstart the breakdown of glucose. As glycolysis continues, four ATP molecules are generated. This leads to a net gain of two ATP molecules per glucose molecule. However, when we mention 8 ATP molecules, we're considering additional ATP produced from related processes. Thus, in some contexts, glycolysis can account indirectly for more ATP, assuming other pathways are engaged.

• Initial investment of 2 ATP to start glycolysis.
• Production of 4 ATP during glycolysis.
• Net gain of 2 ATP directly from glycolysis, plus more from associated pathways.

glucose metabolism

Glucose metabolism is a series of interconnected biochemical reactions. It starts with glycolysis and can lead to several pathways, including the citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation.
Glycolysis occurs in the cytoplasm and does not require oxygen, making it anaerobic. One molecule of glucose gets split into two molecules of pyruvate, plus ATP and electron carriers. In oxygen-rich conditions, pyruvate enters the mitochondria for further energy extraction.

• Glycolysis as the first step of glucose metabolism.
• Pathways diverge based on oxygen availability.
• Continuation through citric acid cycle under aerobic conditions.

biochemical pathways

Biochemical pathways are complex sequences of chemical reactions that allow cells to perform essential functions. Glycolysis is a central pathway, connecting with others like fermentation or aerobic respiration, depending on conditions.
The efficiency of these pathways ensures that energy is generated effectively to meet cellular demands. These pathways can adapt based on various factors, such as nutrient availability and energy needs.

• Glycolysis serves as a central pathway in cellular metabolism.
• Pathways adapt based on oxygen and nutrient levels.
• Interconnections with fermentation or respiration enable flexibility.