When animal cells use fat for energy, they primarily metabolize fatty acids through a process called beta-oxidation, which occurs in the mitochondria. This process breaks down fatty acids into acetyl-CoA, which then enters the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) to produce ATP, the cell's energy currency. Additionally, the breakdown of fats generates molecules such as NADH and FADH2, which contribute to further ATP production through oxidative phosphorylation. Overall, fat metabolism is a highly efficient way for cells to generate energy.
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