Glycolysis is

Options

A. Oxidation of glucose to glutamate
B. Conversion of pyruvate to citrate
C. Oxidation of glucose to pyruvate
D. Conversion of glucose to haem

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Definition of Glycolysis**: Glycolysis is a metabolic pathway that breaks down one molecule of glucose (C6H12O6) into two molecules of pyruvate (or pyruvic acid).

2. **Chemical Equation**: The overall chemical reaction for glycolysis can be summarized as:
\[ \text{Glucose} + 2 \text{ATP} \rightarrow 2 \text{Pyruvate} + 4 \text{ATP} \]

3. **ATP Utilization and Production**: During glycolysis, 2 ATP molecules are used in the initial steps, and 4 ATP molecules are produced in the later steps. Therefore, the net gain of ATP from glycolysis is:
\[ \text{Net Gain} = 4 \text{ ATP produced} - 2 \text{ ATP used} = 2 \text{ ATP} \]

4. **Oxidation Process**: Glycolysis is classified as an oxidation process because glucose is oxidized to form pyruvate. This means that during the glycolysis pathway, glucose loses electrons (is oxidized).

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the above information, we can conclude that glycolysis is the oxidation of glucose to pyruvate. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is:
- **Option 3**: Oxidation of glucose to pyruvate.