What is the net ATP yield from glycolysis?

The net ATP yield from glycolysis is 2 ATP. In glycolysis, a total of 4 ATP molecules are produced through substrate-level phosphorylation during the conversion of glucose into pyruvate. However, this process also consumes 2 ATP molecules in the initial steps to help activate the glucose. The balance of ATP production and consumption results in a net gain of 2 ATP.

This process occurs in the cytoplasm of the cell and is the first step in cellular respiration, breaking down glucose to provide energy. It is crucial to understand that while 4 ATP are produced, the investment of 2 ATP during the energy investment phase brings the net total down to 2 ATP. Thus, the focus on net yield highlights the efficiency and energy gain from the glycolytic pathway, which is fundamental for cellular metabolism.