[OLD] Respiration - Link Reaction

Question 1

Where does the link reaction take place?

Answer 1

The mitochondrial matrix

Question 2

What is the link reaction?

Answer 2

A series of reactions leading to the formation of acetylcoenzyme A from pyruvate.

Question 3

How do the pyruvate molecules reach the mitochondria?

Answer 3

They are actively transported from the cytoplasm.

Question 4

Give the equation for the link reaction.

Answer 4

pyruvate + CoA + NAD -> acetyl CoA + NADH + CO2

Question 5

What happens to pyruvate in the link reaction?

Answer 5

It is oxidised to acetate. In this reaction, the 3-carbon pyruvate loses a carbon dioxide molecule and two hydrogens. These hydrogens are accepted by NAD to form NADH.

Question 6

What happens to acetate in the link reaction?

Answer 6

It combines with coenzyme A to produce acetyl coenzyme A.

Question 7

Which molecule is neither needed or produced in the link reaction?

Answer 7

ATP

Question 8

What are the products of the link reaction?

Answer 8

Acetyl CoA, NADH and CO2