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Acetate, once metabolized in the body, predominantly exits the system as carbon dioxide and water. This process occurs during the final stages of cellular respiration, where acetate, derived initially from the breakdown of carbohydrates or fatty acids, enters the citric acid cycle. In this cycle, acetate gets further oxidized, leading to the production of high-energy molecules such as ATP, while carbon dioxide is released as a byproduct. The water is also generated during this metabolic process.

This is an important aspect of human metabolism, illustrating how the body efficiently converts energy sources into usable forms while disposing of waste products in a safe manner. Understanding this metabolic pathway is crucial for grasping how the body handles substances derived from alcohol and other energy sources, which is a relevant concept in the study of addiction and substance use.