Which stage of cellular respiration completes the breakdown of glucose that was initiated by glycolysis?

The correct answer is the Krebs Cycle, which is also known as the citric acid cycle. This stage plays a crucial role in cellular respiration by continuing the process of glucose breakdown that begins with glycolysis.

During glycolysis, glucose is partially oxidized and converted into pyruvate, producing a small yield of ATP in the process. The pyruvate is then transported into the mitochondria, where the Krebs Cycle takes place. In this cycle, the pyruvate is fully oxidized to carbon dioxide, and in the process, energy-rich molecules like NADH and FADH2 are generated. These carriers are essential as they store energy that will later be utilized in the electron transport chain to produce a larger amount of ATP.

The completeness of glucose metabolism through the Krebs Cycle ensures that all available energy from glucose is harvested before being funneled into subsequent processes. This is a critical transition, as it allows for the efficient production of energy in the form of ATP, which is vital for cellular functions.