Which pathway in cellular respiration generates the most ATP?

Question

Which pathway in cellular respiration generates the most ATP?

1. A. Glycolysis
2. B. Krebs cycle
3. C. Electron transport chain (Correct answer)
4. D. Fermentation

Correct Answer

Option C — Electron transport chain

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is Electron transport chain.

Key Points

• Across cellular respiration, the electron transport chain (ETC) on the inner mitochondrial membrane produces by far the most ATP — roughly 32–34 ATP per glucose via oxidative phosphorylation.
• Glycolysis and the Krebs cycle each net only ~2 ATP directly, and fermentation yields just 2 ATP.
• The ETC's dominance is because it harvests the NADH/FADH₂ made in the earlier stages.