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

Explanation:
Fermentation is the process by which yeast produces CO2 from sugar when oxygen isn’t present. In this pathway, glycolysis converts glucose to pyruvate, yielding a small amount of ATP. Without oxygen, pyruvate is then converted to CO2 and acetaldehyde, which is reduced to ethanol. The CO2 gas released during this decarboxylation is exactly what causes bubbling and bread dough to rise. Aerobic respiration requires oxygen and would fully oxidize sugar to CO2 and water, giving more energy but not occurring in the absence of oxygen. Photosynthesis builds sugars using light and isn’t involved in breaking down sugar to CO2. So the CO2 production from sugar by yeast in a non-oxygen environment is due to fermentation.

Fermentation is the process by which yeast produces CO2 from sugar when oxygen isn’t present. In this pathway, glycolysis converts glucose to pyruvate, yielding a small amount of ATP. Without oxygen, pyruvate is then converted to CO2 and acetaldehyde, which is reduced to ethanol. The CO2 gas released during this decarboxylation is exactly what causes bubbling and bread dough to rise. Aerobic respiration requires oxygen and would fully oxidize sugar to CO2 and water, giving more energy but not occurring in the absence of oxygen. Photosynthesis builds sugars using light and isn’t involved in breaking down sugar to CO2. So the CO2 production from sugar by yeast in a non-oxygen environment is due to fermentation.

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