Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Electron Transport Chain

Anatomy & Physiology

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Electron Transport Chain

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Problem 4

Textbook Question

Cyanide binds to at least one molecule involved in producing ATP. If a cell is exposed to cyanide, most of the cyanide will be found within thea. mitochondria.b. ribosomes.c. peroxisomes.d. lysosomes.

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the primary function of each organelle listed in the options: mitochondria, ribosomes, peroxisomes, and lysosomes.

Recall that ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the main energy currency of the cell and is primarily produced in the mitochondria through cellular respiration.

Understand that cyanide is a potent inhibitor of the electron transport chain, a critical step in ATP production, which occurs in the mitochondria.

Consider that since cyanide affects ATP production, it would most likely bind to components within the mitochondria where the electron transport chain is located.

Conclude that the organelle where most of the cyanide will be found is the one involved in ATP production, which is the mitochondria.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

ATP Production

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the primary energy carrier in cells, produced mainly in the mitochondria through cellular respiration. This process involves the electron transport chain and oxidative phosphorylation, where energy from nutrients is converted into ATP. Understanding ATP production is crucial for grasping how cyanide affects cellular metabolism.

Mitochondria

Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell, where ATP is generated through aerobic respiration. They contain enzymes and proteins essential for the electron transport chain, making them the primary site for ATP synthesis. When cyanide is introduced, it disrupts this process, leading to a buildup of cyanide within the mitochondria.

Cyanide Toxicity

Cyanide is a potent inhibitor of cellular respiration, specifically targeting cytochrome c oxidase in the electron transport chain. This inhibition prevents the transfer of electrons, halting ATP production and leading to cellular energy failure. Understanding cyanide's mechanism of action is vital for predicting its accumulation in cellular structures, particularly the mitochondria.