The breakdown of pyruvate to give carbon dioxide, water and energy takes place in ______

Options

A. cytoplasm
B. mitochondria
C. chloroplast
D. nucleus

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Pyruvate Formation**: Pyruvate is formed from glucose through a process called glycolysis, which occurs in the cytoplasm of the cell.

2. **Pyruvate Breakdown**: After glycolysis, pyruvate undergoes further breakdown. This process is known as pyruvate oxidation.

3. **Location of Pyruvate Oxidation**: The breakdown of pyruvate to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy occurs in the mitochondria.

4. **TCA Cycle**: After pyruvate oxidation, the resulting molecules enter the Tricarboxylic Acid Cycle (TCA Cycle), which also takes place in the mitochondria.

5. **Electron Transport Chain**: Following the TCA Cycle, the electrons are transferred to the electron transport chain, which is responsible for ATP production, and this process occurs in the inner mitochondrial membrane.

6. **By-products**: The overall result of these processes is the production of ATP (energy), along with carbon dioxide and water as by-products.

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the breakdown of pyruvate to give carbon dioxide, water, and energy takes place in the mitochondria.

**Final Answer**: Mitochondria

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