Question

We study cellular respiration because it is one of the most important pathways in biology. In fact, nearly all carbohydrates at some point in their catabolism are directed through cellular respiration. Why is it unnecessary to have multiple independent pathways to break down different molecules?

A. Energy-containing macromolecules can be converted to products that can enter at various points in the cellular respiration pathway

B. Oxygen must be used in the breakdown of all molecules in order to yield ATP

C. Most biological cells only catabolize one or two different types of sugars and only need one main pathway

D. Greater complexity would lead to an eventual failure of the biological system

E. Using cellular respiration is theoretically the most efficient way to break down sugars and other molecules