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Multiple Choice
In the context of acids and bases, what is the proton-motive force?
A
The attraction between protons and electrons in a covalent bond
B
The energy generated by the transfer of protons across a membrane
C
The force that drives the dissociation of acids in water
D
The energy required to remove a proton from a neutral molecule
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that the proton-motive force is a concept primarily used in biochemistry and cellular biology, not directly in organic chemistry, but it relates to the movement of protons (H⁺ ions) across a membrane.
Recognize that the proton-motive force is generated by the transfer of protons across a biological membrane, such as the inner mitochondrial membrane or the thylakoid membrane in chloroplasts.
The movement of protons creates an electrochemical gradient, which is a combination of a difference in proton concentration (pH gradient) and an electrical potential across the membrane.
This electrochemical gradient stores potential energy, which can be used by the cell to perform work, such as synthesizing ATP through ATP synthase.
In summary, the proton-motive force is the energy generated by the transfer of protons across a membrane, which is crucial for processes like ATP production in cellular respiration and photosynthesis.