Step 1: Understanding the Concept
Glycolysis (EMP pathway) occurs in the cytoplasm and splits one glucose into two three-carbon molecules.
Step 2: Last step
The last step, catalysed by pyruvate kinase, converts phosphoenolpyruvate to pyruvate and forms ATP.
Step 3: Compare
Lactic acid, acetaldehyde and ethanol form later from pyruvate only in fermentation.
Final Answer:
Glycolysis ends with pyruvic acid.
\[ \boxed{\text{(A) }\text{pyruvic acid}} \]