Question

How many NADH₂ and FADH₂ are formed when one molecule of glucose undergoes complete oxidation?

Options

• 12 NADPH₂, 4 FADH₂

• 10 NADH₂, 2 FADH₂

• 12 NADPH₂, 2 FADH

• 10 NADPH₂, 2 FADH

Answer 1

10 NADH₂, 2 FADH₂

Explanation:

The glycolytic process converts one molecule of glucose into two molecules of pyruvic acid. In the glycolytic process,

NADH2 (number of molecules produced) = 2

Pyruvic acids are split into two molecules. Acetylation results in the formation of acetyl-CoA.

The number of NADH2 molecules generated during acetylation is equal to two. Throughout the Krebs cycle,

Number of NADH₂ formed = 3 x 2= 6.

Number of FADH₂ = 1x2 = 2.

∴ Total number of NADH₂ = 2 + 2 + 6 =10.

∴ Total number of FADH₂ = 2.