Write the names of three major ways in which different cells handle pyruvic acid

Answer

### Step-by-Step Text Solution:

1. **Understanding Pyruvic Acid**:
- Pyruvic acid is a key intermediate in cellular metabolism, primarily produced from glucose through the process of glycolysis. This process occurs in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions.

2. **Aerobic Respiration**:
- In the presence of oxygen, pyruvic acid is converted into acetyl-CoA.
- Acetyl-CoA then enters the TCA cycle (also known as the Krebs cycle) and subsequently the electron transport chain, leading to the production of ATP.

3. **Anaerobic Respiration**:
- In the absence of oxygen, pyruvic acid can undergo anaerobic respiration, which has two main pathways:
- **Lactic Acid Fermentation**: In certain conditions, such as intense exercise where oxygen is limited, pyruvic acid is converted into lactic acid. This process is commonly observed in muscle cells.
- **Alcoholic Fermentation**: This process occurs in yeast and some microorganisms, where pyruvic acid is converted into ethanol and carbon dioxide.

4. **Summary of Pathways**:
- The three major ways in which different cells handle pyruvic acid are:
1. Aerobic Respiration
2. Lactic Acid Fermentation
3. Alcoholic Fermentation