Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
In the context of organic chemistry, what is the direct result of electrons moving through the electron transport chain?
A
Formation of ATP directly
B
Generation of a proton gradient across the membrane
C
Reduction of NAD+ to NADH
D
Oxidation of glucose to carbon dioxide
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the electron transport chain: In organic chemistry, the electron transport chain is a series of complexes that transfer electrons from electron donors to electron acceptors via redox reactions. This process is coupled with the transfer of protons (H⁺ ions) across a membrane.
Identify the main function: The primary function of the electron transport chain is to create a proton gradient across the mitochondrial membrane. This gradient is essential for the synthesis of ATP, but ATP is not formed directly by the electron transport chain.
Recognize the role of NADH and FADH₂: Electrons are transferred from NADH and FADH₂ to the electron transport chain. These molecules are oxidized, meaning they lose electrons, which are then passed through the chain.
Explain the proton gradient: As electrons move through the chain, protons are pumped from the mitochondrial matrix to the intermembrane space, creating a proton gradient. This gradient is a form of potential energy used by ATP synthase to generate ATP.
Clarify the indirect formation of ATP: The movement of electrons through the electron transport chain does not directly form ATP. Instead, it generates a proton gradient that drives ATP synthesis via chemiosmosis when protons flow back into the matrix through ATP synthase.