Which of the following occurs in the cytosol?

Glycolysis takes place in the cytosol, which is the liquid substance inside the cell where various metabolic processes occur. This pathway involves the breakdown of glucose into pyruvate, which can then enter the mitochondria for further processing. Glycolysis is an anaerobic process, meaning it does not require oxygen and can take place in all types of cells.

In contrast, other metabolic processes such as the citric acid cycle and the electron transport chain take place within the mitochondria. The citric acid cycle, which follows glycolysis, occurs in the mitochondrial matrix, while the electron transport chain is located on the inner mitochondrial membrane. The preparatory step, which converts pyruvate into acetyl-CoA before it enters the citric acid cycle, also occurs in the mitochondria. This distinction between locations is crucial for understanding cellular metabolism and energy production.