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Two Fermentation End Products

publish date: 2026/06/20 10:12:17.100403 UTC

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Anaerobic Fermentation Pathways Fate of Pyruvate in the Absence of Oxygen Pyruvate (3-Carbon) Alcohol Fermentation (Yeast, Plants, Microbes) Releases CO₂ Acetaldehyde (2-Carbon) NADH → NAD⁺ (Uses Hydrogen) Ethanol (2-Carbon Product) Lactic Acid Fermentation (Animals, Certain Bacteria) NADH → NAD⁺ (Uses Hydrogen Directly) Lactate / Lactic Acid (3-Carbon Product) Metabolic Purpose: Both pathways regenerate NAD⁺, allowing Glycolysis to continue making ATP without oxygen.

Based on the diagram, which organisms typically convert pyruvate into ethanol during fermentation?

Correct Answer

Plants and yeast/microorganisms

Explanation

In plants and many microorganisms, fermentation converts pyruvate into ethyl alcohol (ethanol), releasing carbon dioxide in the process. Animals and some microorganisms instead reduce pyruvate to lactic acid.

Reference

Biology: A self-teaching guide

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