Question

Which of the following bioprocess would yield maximum number of ATP per gram of the substrate consumed?

• A. Anaerobic catabolism of amylose
• B. Aerobic catabolism of glucose
• C. Aerobic catabolism of methanol
• D. Aerobic catabolism of acetate

Hint:

• Aerobic $>$ Anaerobic (ATP yield)
• More reduced substrate → More ATP

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: ATP yield depends on:
• Degree of reduction of substrate
• Efficiency of aerobic respiration
• Number of electrons transferred to electron transport chain

Step 1: Analyzing each option.

• Anaerobic catabolism of amylose: Low ATP yield due to absence of oxidative phosphorylation → Low.
• Aerobic catabolism of glucose: High ATP yield (~30–32 ATP/glucose) → High.
• Aerobic catabolism of methanol: Less reduced substrate → lower ATP yield.
• Aerobic catabolism of acetate: More reduced per carbon basis and efficiently oxidized in TCA cycle → Maximum ATP per gram.

Step 2: Selecting the correct answer.
Acetate yields maximum ATP per gram because of efficient oxidation under aerobic conditions.