Link reaction Facts for Kids

The Link reaction is a super important step in how your body and other living things make energy! It's also known as pyruvate decarboxylation. Think of it as a bridge connecting two big energy-making processes: glycolysis and the Krebs cycle.

This reaction is crucial because it creates a molecule called acetyl-CoA. This molecule is absolutely needed for the Krebs cycle to happen, which is a major part of how cells get their power.

Where the Link Reaction Happens
- In Our Cells
- In Tiny Organisms
What Happens in the Link Reaction
- Step 1: Removing Carbon Dioxide
- Step 2: Adding Coenzyme A
Related Energy Processes
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Where the Link Reaction Happens

The Link reaction takes place in different parts of a cell, depending on the type of living thing.

In Our Cells

In eukaryotes, like humans and animals, this reaction happens inside tiny powerhouses called mitochondria. Specifically, it occurs in the inner part of the mitochondria, called the mitochondrial matrix.

In Tiny Organisms

In prokaryotes, which are very simple, tiny organisms like bacteria, the Link reaction happens in slightly different places. It can occur in the watery part of the cell, called the cytoplasm, or right at the cell's outer skin, the plasma membrane.

What Happens in the Link Reaction

The Link reaction takes a molecule called pyruvate and changes it into acetyl-CoA. This involves two main steps:

Step 1: Removing Carbon Dioxide

First, a molecule of pyruvate loses a carbon dioxide (CO₂) molecule. This process is called "decarboxylation." It's like taking a piece off the pyruvate molecule.

Step 2: Adding Coenzyme A

Next, the changed pyruvate molecule joins up with something called CoA. This forms the new molecule, acetyl-CoA.

Once acetyl-CoA is formed, it is ready to enter the Krebs cycle. The Krebs cycle then continues the process of breaking down food molecules to create energy for the cell.