Multiple Choice
What is the energy source that powers ATP synthase during chemiosmosis?
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8. Respiration
Chemiosmosis
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During chemiosmosis in mitochondria, which structure is primarily responsible for synthesizing ATP as protons flow through it?
A
ATP synthase
B
NADH dehydrogenase
C
Succinate dehydrogenase
D
Cytochrome c oxidase
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the process of chemiosmosis: Chemiosmosis is the movement of protons (H⁺ ions) across a membrane, driven by a proton gradient, to generate ATP. This occurs in the mitochondria during cellular respiration.
Identify the role of the proton gradient: During the electron transport chain, protons are pumped from the mitochondrial matrix into the intermembrane space, creating a high concentration of protons in the intermembrane space relative to the matrix.
Recognize the structure responsible for ATP synthesis: Protons flow back into the mitochondrial matrix through a specific enzyme embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane. This enzyme uses the energy from the proton flow to catalyze the synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi).
Name the enzyme: The enzyme responsible for synthesizing ATP during chemiosmosis is ATP synthase. It acts as a molecular motor, powered by the flow of protons down their gradient.
Differentiate ATP synthase from other components: While NADH dehydrogenase, succinate dehydrogenase, and cytochrome c oxidase are part of the electron transport chain and contribute to creating the proton gradient, they do not directly synthesize ATP. ATP synthase is the structure that directly performs this function.
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