Glycolysis
MCAT glossary · Biological & Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
Definition
The cytoplasmic 10-step pathway converting one glucose into two pyruvate, netting 2 ATP and 2 NADH.
Glycolysis in plain English
Glycolysis is how nearly every cell gets a quick shot of energy from sugar — it splits one glucose molecule into two smaller pieces called pyruvate. It happens right out in the cytoplasm (the cell's watery interior, no special compartment needed) across 10 small steps, and the payoff is a NET of 2 ATP (the cell's usable energy 'cash') plus 2 NADH (molecules that carry energy to be cashed in later). Think of it as breaking a $20 bill into usable change: you spend a little energy up front to start the process, then get more back, ending ahead. It's fast and needs no oxygen, which is why it's the body's go-to for a sprint or any sudden energy demand.
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