Name the pathway common to both aerobic and anaerobic pathways.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the question**: The question asks for the pathway that is common to both aerobic and anaerobic respiration.

2. **Recall the processes of respiration**: Understand that respiration can occur in two main forms: aerobic (which requires oxygen) and anaerobic (which does not require oxygen).

3. **Determine the common pathway**: The pathway that is common to both aerobic and anaerobic respiration is glycolysis.

4. **Explain glycolysis**: Glycolysis is a metabolic pathway that occurs in the cytoplasm of cells. It involves the breakdown of glucose into two molecules of pyruvic acid.

5. **Mention the characteristics of glycolysis**: Glycolysis is also known as the Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas (EMP) pathway. It consists of a series of 10 enzymatic reactions.

6. **Discuss the energy yield**: During glycolysis, a net gain of 2 ATP molecules is achieved. Although 4 ATP are produced, 2 ATP are consumed in the initial steps of the pathway.

7. **Describe the fate of pyruvate**: The pyruvate produced from glycolysis can enter different pathways depending on the availability of oxygen. It can undergo fermentation (lactic acid or alcoholic) or enter the Krebs cycle if oxygen is present.

8. **Conclude the answer**: Therefore, the answer to the question is glycolysis.

**Final Answer**: The pathway common to both aerobic and anaerobic respiration is glycolysis.

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