What are the three main products of the Krebs cycle?

The Krebs cycle, also known as the citric acid cycle, is a central part of cellular respiration that occurs in the mitochondria. During one turn of the Krebs cycle, the acetyl group from acetyl CoA enters the cycle, where it is oxidized and decarboxylated, ultimately leading to the production of several key molecules.

The correct answer includes carbon dioxide (CO2), hydrogen atoms (often present in the form of NADH and FADH2), and ATP. As the cycle progresses, carbon atoms from the acetyl group are released as CO2. Additionally, energy from these reactions is captured in the form of NADH and FADH2, which are vital for the electron transport chain. ATP is produced directly during the cycle, although the majority of ATP in cellular respiration comes from the oxidative phosphorylation stage, which uses the NADH and FADH2 produced in the Krebs cycle.

In summary, the Krebs cycle's main products include carbon dioxide, hydrogen carriers (NADH and FADH2), and a small amount of ATP.