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Multiple Choice
Which statement best describes the process of chemiosmosis and the direct result of its occurrence?
A
Chemiosmosis is the process by which oxygen is reduced to water in the cytoplasm, releasing carbon dioxide.
B
Chemiosmosis involves the movement of protons down their electrochemical gradient through ATP synthase, resulting in the synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate.
C
Chemiosmosis is the active transport of electrons across the mitochondrial membrane, directly producing glucose.
D
Chemiosmosis refers to the breakdown of glucose into pyruvate, generating NADH and FADH$_2$.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the term 'chemiosmosis.' Chemiosmosis is a biological process that occurs in cellular respiration and photosynthesis, where the movement of ions (specifically protons, H⁺) across a membrane generates energy for ATP synthesis.
Step 2: Identify the key components involved in chemiosmosis. These include the electrochemical gradient of protons, the enzyme ATP synthase, and the production of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi).
Step 3: Recognize the role of the electrochemical gradient. Protons are actively transported across a membrane (e.g., the inner mitochondrial membrane in cellular respiration) to create a high concentration of protons on one side. This gradient stores potential energy.
Step 4: Understand how ATP synthase utilizes the gradient. Protons flow back down their electrochemical gradient through ATP synthase, a protein complex embedded in the membrane. This movement drives the synthesis of ATP from ADP and Pi.
Step 5: Compare the provided statements to the correct description of chemiosmosis. The correct statement is: 'Chemiosmosis involves the movement of protons down their electrochemical gradient through ATP synthase, resulting in the synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate.' This matches the biological process described above.