All questions of Respiration in Plants for NEET Exam
Ans.
The respiratory quotient (or RQ or respiratory coefficient), is a dimensionless number used in calculations of basal metabolic rate (BMR) when estimated from carbon dioxide production. ... If metabolism consists solely of lipids, the Respiratory Quotient is 0.7, for proteins it is 0.8, and for carbohydrates it is 1.0.
The overall goal of glycolysis, Krebs cycle and electron transport system is the formation of ATP step-wise. The three processes are involved in cellular respiration of food to produce energy, which will be used for various cellular activities.
Acetyl Co-A is a key molecule that plays a central role in the catabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It serves as a convergence point in the metabolic pathways of these macronutrients, entering the citric acid cycle where it undergoes further breakdown to produce energy. This makes it a common component in the respiration-mediated breakdown of all three types of biomolecules.
Understanding ATP Yield from Glucose
The theoretical calculation of ATP gain from glucose is often approximated due to various dynamic cellular conditions.
Dynamic Cellular Environment
- Cells do not operate in isolation; they are part of complex networks where various metabolic pathways interact.
- The energy needs of a cell can fluctuate based on growth, activity levels, and environmental conditions.
Simultaneous Pathway Activity
- Multiple metabolic pathways, such as glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation, can be active at the same time.
- This simultaneous operation means that the ATP yield from glucose can vary based on which pathways are more active at any given time.
Substrate Availability and Demand
- Different substrates (like fats and proteins) can also enter metabolic pathways, influencing overall energy production.
- The presence of alternative substrates can impact the efficiency and ATP yield of glucose metabolism.
Cell Type Variation
- Different cell types have varying metabolic capacities and energy demands, leading to differences in ATP production rates.
- For example, muscle cells and liver cells may utilize glucose differently based on their specific functions and energy needs.
Conclusion
In summary, the ATP yield from one molecule of glucose is only an approximation because cellular conditions—such as fluctuating ATP demands, simultaneous pathway activity, and substrate availability—significantly affect actual ATP production. Understanding these factors is crucial for a more accurate assessment of energy metabolism in living organisms.
c) Aerobic respiration results in a higher yield of ATP per glucose molecule than fermentation.
Explanation
Fermentation:
Aerobic respiration:
So the major difference is the amount of ATP produced: aerobic respiration is far more efficient.