Oxidative Phosphorylation

Front

What is oxidative phosphorylation?

Back

A metabolic pathway that uses energy released by the electron transport chain to power ATP synthesis.

Front

What is the role of the electron transport chain in oxidative phosphorylation?

Back

It transfers electrons from electron donors like NADH and FADH2 to electron acceptors, releasing energy used to pump protons across the mitochondrial membrane.

Front

What is chemiosmosis?

Back

The process by which ATP is produced in mitochondria as protons flow back into the mitochondrial matrix through ATP synthase, driven by the proton gradient.

Front

What is the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain?

Back

Oxygen, which combines with electrons and protons to form water.

Front

Where does oxidative phosphorylation occur in the cell?

Back

In the inner mitochondrial membrane.

Front

What is ATP synthase?

Back

An enzyme that synthesizes ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate, powered by the flow of protons across the membrane.

Front

What is the proton motive force?

Back

The force generated by the electrochemical gradient of protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane, driving ATP synthesis.

Front

What are the two main components of the electron transport chain?

Back

Complexes I-IV and mobile electron carriers like ubiquinone and cytochrome c.

Front

How does NADH contribute to oxidative phosphorylation?

Back

NADH donates electrons to the electron transport chain, which helps to create a proton gradient.

Front

What is the significance of the proton gradient in oxidative phosphorylation?

Back

It stores potential energy that is used to drive ATP synthesis.