Q. 18.87 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

If there are no reactions in the citric acid cycle that use oxygen,$O_2$, why does the cycle operate only in aerobic conditions? $(18.5)$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The cycle operates only in aerobic conditions due to it need oxygen for regeneration of $NA{D}^{+}$ and $FAD$.

Step 1: Given Information

We need to explain the reason for the cycle operates only in aerobic conditions.

Step 2: Explanation

The aerobic condition is needed because coenzymes $NA{D}^{+}$ and $FAD$, that are needed for the citric cycle, need oxygen for regeneration.