Anaerobic: pyruvate can be converted to ethanol or lactate using reduced NAD; oxidised NAD can be used in further glycolysis
When cells run out of oxygen, they convert pyruvate into either lactate or ethanol. This regenerates NAD so glycolysis can keep making ATP.
Real World
When sprinter Dina Asher-Smith finishes a 200m race, lactate accumulates in her leg muscles because pyruvate accepts hydrogen from reduced NAD faster than oxygen can be delivered.
Exam Focus
Emphasise that the purpose of anaerobic pathways is to regenerate oxidised NAD, not simply to produce lactate or ethanol.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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