Glycolysis

Glycolysis is a fundamental process that breaks down glucose, a type of sugar, into smaller molecules to release energy. It occurs in the cytoplasm of cells and is the first step in both aerobic and anaerobic respiration. During glycolysis, one glucose molecule is converted into two molecules of pyruvate, producing small amounts of energy stored as ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and some energy-rich molecules called NADH. This process is essential for all living organisms, as it provides the energy needed for cellular functions and supports various metabolic pathways.