During cellular respiration, energy stored within the bonds of glucose molecules is used to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which serves as an energy currency for cells.
Let's break down the process into clear steps:
1. Glycolysis: The first stage of cellular respiration where glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) is broken down into two molecules of pyruvate. This process occurs in the cytoplasm and generates a small amount of ATP.
2. Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle): The pyruvate molecules produced during glycolysis enter the mitochondria and are further broken down. In this cycle, high-energy carriers (NADH and FADH₂) are produced along with a small amount of ATP. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is released as a byproduct.
3. Electron Transport Chain and Oxidative Phosphorylation: The high-energy electrons carried by NADH and FADH₂ are transferred to the electron transport chain in the inner mitochondrial membrane. As electrons move through the chain, energy is released, which is then used to pump protons across the membrane, creating a proton gradient. ATP is produced as protons flow back across the membrane through ATP synthase.
In summary, during cellular respiration, the energy stored in the bonds of glucose is ultimately transferred to ATP. This ATP can then be used by the cell for various energy-requiring processes.
Therefore, the correct answer is:
- The energy is transferred to ATP.
