Effect of Uncoupler on ATP Production

Consider the role of the electron transport chain (ETC) in cellular respiration, specifically within the inner mitochondrial membrane. During oxidative phosphorylation, electrons are transferred through a series of protein complexes. Each transfer releases energy used to pump protons (H⁺) across the inner mitochondrial membrane, generating a proton gradient. This chemiosmotic gradient drives ATP synthesis via ATP synthase. Assume a hypothetical scenario wherein a molecule acts as an uncoupler, allowing protons to flow back into the mitochondrial matrix without passing through ATP synthase. In this context, which statement best describes the effect of such an uncoupler on cellular respiration and ATP production?