Question

what happens to pyruvic acid in the presence of oxygen?
o it is converted to glucose, which then undergoes glycolysis.
o it enters the blood stream and is transported to the liver.
o it enters the mitochondria and is oxidized by aerobic respiration.
o it accepts electrons from nadh and is reduced to lactic acid.

Explanation:

In the presence of oxygen, pyruvic acid enters the mitochondria and undergoes aerobic respiration. Glycolysis produces pyruvic acid, not the other - way around. Transport to the liver is not the main fate in the presence of oxygen. Reduction to lactic acid occurs in anaerobic conditions.

Answer:

It enters the mitochondria and is oxidized by aerobic respiration.