Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Where is the electron transport system (ETS) located in prokaryotic cells?
A
In the mitochondria
B
In the cytoplasm
C
In the nucleus
D
In the plasma membrane
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of prokaryotic cells: Prokaryotic cells, unlike eukaryotic cells, do not have membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria or a nucleus. This is crucial in determining where cellular processes occur.
Identify the function of the electron transport system (ETS): The ETS is a series of protein complexes and other molecules that transfer electrons through a membrane to create a proton gradient, which is used to produce ATP.
Recognize the location of the ETS in eukaryotic cells: In eukaryotic cells, the ETS is located in the inner mitochondrial membrane. However, prokaryotic cells lack mitochondria.
Determine the location of the ETS in prokaryotic cells: Since prokaryotic cells do not have mitochondria, the ETS must be located in a different membrane. The plasma membrane of prokaryotic cells serves as the site for the ETS.
Conclude that the plasma membrane is the correct location for the ETS in prokaryotic cells: Given the absence of mitochondria and the presence of the plasma membrane, the ETS is located in the plasma membrane in prokaryotic cells.