Why do scientists think that glycolysis evolved before the other stages of cellular respiration?

Question

O Because glycolysis is only seen in prokaryotes
• Because it generates ATP
• Because it does not require oxygen
• Because it requires oxygen

Answer 1

Scientists think that glycolysis evolved before the other stages of cellular respiration because it does not require oxygen. This is indicative of its ancient origin, as it likely developed at a time when the Earth's atmosphere contained very little free oxygen. Glycolysis is a series of reactions that can occur under anaerobic (non-oxygen-requiring) conditions and is considered one of the most ancient metabolic pathways. It is found in the cells of all living organisms, from prokaryotes to eukaryotes, indicating its universal importance and early origin in the evolutionary history of life.