Which reactions of the citric acid cycle transfer energy as FADH₂?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle or TCA cycle, which is a series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to release stored energy.
2. Understand that during the citric acid cycle, energy is transferred in the form of high-energy electron carriers, such as NADH and FADH_2.
3. Recognize that FADH_2 is produced in the citric acid cycle during the conversion of succinate to fumarate.
4. Note that this reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme succinate dehydrogenase, which is embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane.
5. Remember that the electrons transferred to FAD to form FADH_2 are later used in the electron transport chain to produce ATP.

Key Concepts

Citric Acid Cycle

The citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle, is a series of enzymatic reactions that occur in the mitochondria. It plays a crucial role in cellular respiration by oxidizing acetyl-CoA to produce energy carriers, including NADH and FADH2, which are essential for ATP production in the electron transport chain.

FADH2 Production

FADH2 is a reduced form of flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) and serves as an important electron carrier in the citric acid cycle. It is produced during specific reactions, such as the conversion of succinate to fumarate, where FAD is reduced to FADH2, capturing energy that can later be used to generate ATP.

Energy Transfer in Metabolism

Energy transfer in metabolism refers to the process by which energy is captured and stored in the form of high-energy molecules like ATP, NADH, and FADH2. In the context of the citric acid cycle, the transfer of energy as FADH2 is vital for the subsequent production of ATP through oxidative phosphorylation, highlighting the interconnectedness of metabolic pathways.