Multiple Choice
Where are the molecules of the electron transport chain found in plant cells?
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8. Respiration
Electron Transport Chain
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What is the primary function of electrons in the electron transport chain?
A
To break down glucose into pyruvate
B
To transport oxygen to the mitochondria
C
To pump protons across the mitochondrial membrane
D
To directly synthesize ATP
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of the electron transport chain (ETC) in cellular respiration. The ETC is the final stage of aerobic respiration, occurring in the inner mitochondrial membrane, where electrons are transferred through a series of protein complexes.
Recognize that the primary function of electrons in the ETC is to facilitate the movement of protons (H⁺ ions) across the mitochondrial membrane. As electrons pass through the chain, they release energy that is used to pump protons from the mitochondrial matrix to the intermembrane space.
Learn about the creation of a proton gradient. The pumping of protons creates a high concentration of protons in the intermembrane space compared to the matrix, establishing an electrochemical gradient known as the proton motive force.
Understand how the proton gradient is used to synthesize ATP. The enzyme ATP synthase utilizes the energy from the flow of protons back into the matrix to convert ADP and inorganic phosphate into ATP, the energy currency of the cell.
Clarify that the electrons themselves do not directly synthesize ATP. Instead, they provide the energy needed to create the proton gradient, which is essential for ATP production via ATP synthase.
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