tica86 said:Having some trouble understanding if the Kreb cycle is exergonic or endergonic?
I know it has to be exergonic because it's releasing ATP?
The Kreb Cycle, also known as the citric acid cycle, is a series of biochemical reactions that take place in the mitochondria of cells. It is responsible for producing energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) through the breakdown of glucose and other molecules. The cycle involves a series of chemical reactions that produce NADH and FADH2, which are then used in the electron transport chain to produce ATP.
ATP is the main energy currency of the cell, and it plays a crucial role in the Kreb Cycle. In the cycle, ATP is produced through a process called substrate-level phosphorylation, where a phosphate group is added to ADP (adenosine diphosphate) to form ATP. This ATP is then used as a source of energy for cellular processes.
The Kreb Cycle is regulated through a process called feedback inhibition. This means that the products of the cycle, such as ATP and NADH, can inhibit the enzymes responsible for the reactions in the cycle. This helps to maintain a balance of energy production in the cell and prevents an excessive buildup of ATP.
The Kreb Cycle is the second stage of cellular respiration, following glycolysis. It is responsible for producing the majority of the ATP in aerobic respiration. The NADH and FADH2 produced in the Kreb Cycle are then used in the electron transport chain to generate even more ATP. Therefore, the Kreb Cycle is essential for the efficient production of energy in cells.
The Kreb Cycle is only present in aerobic respiration, as it requires oxygen to function. In anaerobic respiration, the Kreb Cycle is not used, and ATP is produced through other processes such as fermentation. Additionally, the end products of the Kreb Cycle may differ in anaerobic respiration, depending on the type of molecule being broken down.