Proton Gradient and ATP Synthesis in Oxidative Phosphorylation

Hard Biochemistry Bioenergetics

The human body relies on various biochemical processes to convert energy from food into usable forms for cellular functions. The main energy currency in cells is adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is generated through different metabolic pathways. One such pathway is oxidative phosphorylation, which occurs in the mitochondria and involves the electron transport chain (ETC) and ATP synthase. In this context, which of the following statements about the role of the proton gradient in ATP synthesis during oxidative phosphorylation is correct?

The proton gradient forms spontaneously without energy input.

The proton gradient is directly used by the ETC to generate ATP.

The proton gradient is established by the flow of electrons through the ETC.

The proton gradient dissipates when ATP is hydrolyzed.

Hint

Submitted15.6K

Correct9.3K

% Correct59%