How many `NADPH_2` and ATP molecules are produced in a single TCA cycle ?

Options

A. 3 and 1 respectively
B. 2 and 1 respectively
C. 0 and 1 respectively
D. 3 and 2 respectively

Answer

To determine how many NADPH2 and ATP molecules are produced in a single TCA (Tricarboxylic Acid) cycle, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the TCA Cycle**:
- The TCA cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle or citric acid cycle, is a crucial part of aerobic respiration. It occurs in the mitochondria and is responsible for the oxidation of acetyl-CoA to produce energy.

2. **Identifying the Inputs**:
- The cycle begins with acetyl-CoA combining with oxaloacetate (OAA) to form citrate. This is the starting point of the TCA cycle.

3. **Counting the Products**:
- During one complete turn of the TCA cycle, several key products are generated:
- **NADH**: For every cycle, three molecules of NADH are produced.
- **ATP**: One molecule of ATP (or GTP, which is interchangeable in some organisms) is produced.

4. **Total Production in One Cycle**:
- Therefore, in one complete TCA cycle, the production is:
- **3 NADH**
- **1 ATP**

5. **Conclusion**:
- The final answer is that in a single TCA cycle, **3 NADH and 1 ATP** molecule are produced.