For each turn of the citric acid cycle, which substance is released as a direct product of the decarboxylation reactions?

Core Concept

Two molecules of CO2 are released during each turn of the citric acid cycle through decarboxylation reactions. The count is correct, but the carbon atoms released in the first turn are generally not the same two carbon atoms that entered in that turn's acetyl-CoA. The incoming acetyl carbons usually persist into later cycle turns before being released.