Which statement best explains why the citric acid cycle operates in aerobic conditions?

• A. The oxidized coenzymes NAD⁺ and FAD, essential for the citric acid cycle, are regenerated through electron transport, which needs oxygen.
• B. The citric acid cycle directly consumes oxygen to produce energy-rich molecules needed for cellular respiration in mitochondria.
• C. The citric acid cycle produces NADH and FADH₂, which require oxygen to be synthesized into ATP directly via electron transport.
• D. Oxygen is required to convert acetyl-CoA into carbon dioxide and water during the citric acid cycle for energy release.

Answer: (A)