How many molecules of ATP are generated when stearic acid , an 18-carbon saturated fatty acid, is completely oxidized via the beta-oxidation pathway in the mitochondria?

a) 112
b) 129
c) 146
d) 163

Explanation:

To calculate the ATP generated in complete beta-oxidation of stearic acid (an 18-carbon saturated fatty acid ),

     number of rounds of beta-oxidation =   ,

                                           where ,n is number of carbon present in fatty acid                                        since , n= 18 in give fatty acid

      number of rounds of beta-oxidation =

 8 rounds of beta-oxidation gives :-

    -8

    -8

    -8 +

   Each rounds of beta oxidation gives 17 ATP , So 8 rounds of beta-     oxidation gives 17 × 8 = 136 ATP , while theres's an extra which also undergoes in Krebs cycle along with other 8 , though this extra produce 12 ATP . While 2 molecules of ATP is consumed in activation of fatty acid , So total energy generated in beta-oxidation of stearic acid is 146 .    

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