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Multiple Choice
How can the flow of electrons through the electron transport chain be described?
A
Electrons are transferred from NADH and FADH2 to oxygen through a series of protein complexes.
B
Electrons are transferred from ATP to NADH and FADH2.
C
Electrons are transferred directly from glucose to ATP.
D
Electrons are transferred from oxygen to carbon dioxide.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the role of the electron transport chain (ETC) in cellular respiration. The ETC is located in the inner mitochondrial membrane and is crucial for the production of ATP through oxidative phosphorylation.
Recognize that the primary electron donors in the ETC are NADH and FADH2. These molecules are generated during earlier stages of cellular respiration, such as glycolysis and the citric acid cycle.
Identify the series of protein complexes involved in the ETC. Electrons from NADH and FADH2 are transferred through these complexes: Complex I (NADH dehydrogenase), Complex II (succinate dehydrogenase), Complex III (cytochrome bc1 complex), and Complex IV (cytochrome c oxidase).
Understand that as electrons move through these complexes, they release energy. This energy is used to pump protons (H+) across the inner mitochondrial membrane, creating a proton gradient.
Finally, recognize that the electrons are ultimately transferred to oxygen, the final electron acceptor, forming water. This step is crucial for maintaining the flow of electrons and the continuation of ATP production.