What is the end product of the citric acid cycle?

The end product of the citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle, is carbon dioxide. During this cycle, acetyl-CoA is oxidized through a series of enzymatic reactions that ultimately lead to the release of two molecules of carbon dioxide for each acetyl-CoA that enters the cycle. This oxidative process not only helps in the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins but also plays a crucial role in cellular respiration and energy production.

As the cycle progresses, it transfers high-energy electrons to carriers such as NADH and FADH2, which are vital for the electron transport chain, where they ultimately contribute to ATP production. While NADH, FADH2, and ATP are significant products of the cycle, they are not the final products; instead, they are intermediates used in subsequent steps of energy metabolism. The release of carbon dioxide indicates the cycle's role in the complete oxidation of organic substrates.