To calculate the total ATP produced during aerobic cellular respiration, you need to consider the ATP generated in each stage: Glycolysis, Decarboxylation of pyruvate to acetyl CoA, and the Krebs Cycle. According to the provided reference, a total of 38 ATP molecules are produced.
Here’s a breakdown of ATP production at each stage, based on the reference:
ATP Production Breakdown
| Stage | ATP Production |
|---|---|
| Glycolysis | 8 ATP (2 ATP + 2 NADH = 6 ATP, i.e., 3 ATPs per NADH molecule) |
| Decarboxylation of pyruvate to acetyl CoA | The reference does not specify the ATP production, but implies that the ATP produced is included in the final calculation. |
| Krebs Cycle | 24 ATP (6 NADH = 18 ATP, 2 FADH2 = 4 ATP (2 ATP per FADH2) and 2 ATP) |
| Total | 38 ATP |
Important Considerations:
-
The 38 ATP yield is a theoretical maximum. The actual yield may vary due to factors like:
- NADH Shuttles: Efficiency of NADH transport into the mitochondria.
- Proton Leakage: Some protons may leak across the mitochondrial membrane, reducing the proton gradient.
- ATP Usage: ATP is used for other cellular processes, potentially reducing the net gain.
-
The reference does not specify the exact ATP yield per NADH and FADH2, but assigns 3 ATP per NADH and 2 ATP per FADH2.
Therefore, while the theoretical maximum ATP yield from aerobic respiration is 38 ATP, the actual yield can be slightly lower depending on various cellular conditions.
