Which process is responsible for the recorded production of CO2 by yeast cells from a sugar solution?

Prepare for the NLN PAX Science Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and detailed explanations to boost your confidence and exam readiness.

Multiple Choice

Which process is responsible for the recorded production of CO2 by yeast cells from a sugar solution?

Explanation:
When oxygen isn’t available, yeast switches to fermentation, a form of anaerobic metabolism. In this pathway, sugar is broken down through glycolysis to produce pyruvate and NADH, and the cell must regenerate NAD+ to keep glycolysis going. It does this by converting pyruvate to acetaldehyde with release of CO2, then reducing acetaldehyde to ethanol. The CO2 gas released during the pyruvate decarboxylation step is what you observe, so CO2 production here signals fermentation. Fermentation is a type of anaerobic respiration, which is why this process best explains the recorded CO2 production in a sugar solution with yeast.

When oxygen isn’t available, yeast switches to fermentation, a form of anaerobic metabolism. In this pathway, sugar is broken down through glycolysis to produce pyruvate and NADH, and the cell must regenerate NAD+ to keep glycolysis going. It does this by converting pyruvate to acetaldehyde with release of CO2, then reducing acetaldehyde to ethanol. The CO2 gas released during the pyruvate decarboxylation step is what you observe, so CO2 production here signals fermentation. Fermentation is a type of anaerobic respiration, which is why this process best explains the recorded CO2 production in a sugar solution with yeast.

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