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Multiple Choice
The oxygen consumed during cellular respiration is involved directly in which process or event?
A
Glycolysis
B
The citric acid cycle
C
Accepting electrons at the end of the electron transport chain
D
Phosphorylation of ADP to form ATP
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of oxygen in cellular respiration: Oxygen acts as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain, which is the last stage of cellular respiration.
Recall the sequence of cellular respiration: Glycolysis occurs first, followed by the citric acid cycle, and finally the electron transport chain. Oxygen is not directly involved in glycolysis or the citric acid cycle.
Focus on the electron transport chain: Electrons are passed through a series of protein complexes in the mitochondrial membrane, releasing energy to pump protons across the membrane and create a proton gradient.
Identify the role of oxygen in the electron transport chain: At the end of the chain, oxygen accepts electrons and combines with protons to form water. This process is essential for maintaining the flow of electrons and preventing a backup in the chain.
Clarify the connection to ATP synthesis: The proton gradient created during the electron transport chain drives ATP synthesis through oxidative phosphorylation, but oxygen's direct role is in accepting electrons, not in phosphorylating ADP.