What are the end products of glycolysis?

The end products of glycolysis are primarily two molecules of pyruvic acid, alongside a net gain of two ATP molecules and two NADH molecules. In glycolysis, glucose is ultimately split into two three-carbon molecules of pyruvate through a series of enzymatic reactions.

During this process, a total of four ATP molecules are produced; however, two ATP molecules are consumed in the early steps, leading to a net gain of two ATP. Additionally, glycolysis involves the reduction of NAD+ to NADH, producing two molecules of NADH as well. The specific emphasis on these products is crucial—it highlights the energy and reducing equivalents generated from the breakdown of glucose.

Other options mention incorrect combinations of products or include substances not produced by glycolysis, such as FADH2 or glucose itself, which further clarifies why the first option is the most accurate representation of glycolysis' end products.