Question

How many ATP molecules would be produced from complete aerobic breakdown of one molecule of acetyl CoA?

• A. 38
• B. 15
• C. 36
• D. 12

Hint:

The complete breakdown of acetyl CoA in aerobic respiration yields 38 ATP molecules.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the breakdown of acetyl CoA.
When acetyl CoA undergoes complete aerobic breakdown, it enters the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) and undergoes oxidative phosphorylation to produce ATP. For each acetyl CoA, about 38 ATP molecules are produced.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) 38: Correct. This is the total number of ATP produced from the complete breakdown of one molecule of acetyl CoA.
(B) 15: Incorrect. This is too low for the complete breakdown of acetyl CoA.
(C) 36: Incorrect. While 36 is close, the correct value is 38.
(D) 12: Incorrect. This is far too low and does not match the expected ATP yield.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A) 38, as complete breakdown of one molecule of acetyl CoA yields 38 ATP.