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Multiple Choice
Which of the following correctly lists the steps of the electron transport chain in order from beginning to end?
A
NADH and FADH$_2$ donate electrons → electrons pass through complexes I-IV → oxygen is reduced to water → ATP is synthesized by ATP synthase
B
Oxygen is reduced to water → electrons pass through complexes I-IV → NADH and FADH$_2$ donate electrons → ATP is synthesized by ATP synthase
C
Electrons pass through complexes I-IV → NADH and FADH$_2$ donate electrons → ATP is synthesized by ATP synthase → oxygen is reduced to water
D
ATP is synthesized by ATP synthase → NADH and FADH$_2$ donate electrons → oxygen is reduced to water → electrons pass through complexes I-IV
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the role of NADH and FADH$_2$ in the electron transport chain. These molecules are electron carriers that donate high-energy electrons to the chain, initiating the process.
Step 2: Recognize that the donated electrons are passed through a series of protein complexes (I-IV) embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane. This transfer of electrons creates a proton gradient by pumping protons across the membrane.
Step 3: Note that oxygen acts as the final electron acceptor in the chain. It combines with electrons and protons to form water, which is a critical step in maintaining the flow of electrons through the chain.
Step 4: Understand the role of ATP synthase, which uses the proton gradient created by the electron transport chain to synthesize ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate. This process is known as chemiosmosis.
Step 5: Review the correct sequence of events: NADH and FADH$_2$ donate electrons → electrons pass through complexes I-IV → oxygen is reduced to water → ATP is synthesized by ATP synthase.