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Multiple Choice
What is the primary purpose of the electron transport chain in cellular respiration?
A
To fix carbon dioxide into organic molecules
B
To generate ATP by oxidative phosphorylation
C
To produce oxygen as a byproduct
D
To break down glucose into pyruvate
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of cellular respiration: Cellular respiration is a metabolic process that converts biochemical energy from nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and then releases waste products.
Identify the role of the electron transport chain: The electron transport chain is the final stage of cellular respiration, occurring in the inner mitochondrial membrane, where electrons are transferred through a series of protein complexes.
Recognize the main function of the electron transport chain: The primary purpose is to create a proton gradient across the mitochondrial membrane by transferring electrons, which drives the synthesis of ATP through oxidative phosphorylation.
Clarify oxidative phosphorylation: This process involves the enzyme ATP synthase, which uses the proton gradient created by the electron transport chain to convert adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and inorganic phosphate into ATP.
Distinguish the electron transport chain from other processes: Unlike carbon fixation or glucose breakdown, the electron transport chain specifically focuses on ATP generation, not directly on producing oxygen or breaking down glucose.