Metabolism of one molecule of which of the following produces the highest number of ATPs?
A) Glucose via anaerobic glycolysis
B) Glucose via oxidative phosphorylation
C) Amino acid metabolism (e.g., alanine)
D) Fat metabolism (e.g., palmitate)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fat metabolism, particularly from sources like palmitate, yields the highest number of ATPs when compared to glucose metabolism (either anaerobic glycolysis or oxidative phosphorylation) or amino acid metabolism. This is because fats are highly reduced compounds, and their oxidation releases a significant amount of energy, much of which is captured in the form of ATP.

Metabolism of One Molecule of Which of the Following Produces