Where does the formation of acetyl CoA from pyruvic acid take place ?

Options

A. Mitochondria
B. Chloroplast
C. Cytoplasm
D. Golgi body

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Reaction**: The conversion of pyruvic acid to acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl CoA) is an important metabolic process that occurs after glycolysis. It is an oxidation reaction where pyruvic acid loses a carbon atom in the form of carbon dioxide.

2. **Identifying the Location**: The formation of acetyl CoA occurs in the mitochondria of the cell. This is crucial because the mitochondria are the site of aerobic respiration and are involved in the oxidation of pyruvate.

3. **Chemical Changes**: During the conversion, the carboxyl group (COO-) from pyruvic acid is removed, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide (CO2). The remaining acetyl group (CH3CO-) is then combined with coenzyme A (CoA) to form acetyl CoA.

4. **Final Answer**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question "Where does the formation of acetyl CoA from pyruvic acid take place?" is the mitochondria.

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