The molecule that is oxidized during aerobic respiration is glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆).

Quick scoop

  • In aerobic cellular respiration, glucose loses electrons and hydrogen atoms as it is broken down into carbon dioxide and water, which is the definition of oxidation.
  • Overall, the process can be summarized by the equation: glucose + oxygen → carbon dioxide + water + ATP, where glucose is oxidized and oxygen is reduced.

TL;DR: The molecule oxidized during aerobic respiration is glucose.

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