Asked by Amber Pristas on Jun 27, 2024
Verified
Sketch the electron transport chain and electron flow. Identify each complex and which complex(es) pump protons into the intermembrane space.
Electron Transport Chain
A series of complexes that transfer electrons from electron donors to electron acceptors via redox (reduction and oxidation) reactions, and the transfer of electrons is coupled with the transfer of protons (H+ ions) across a membrane, which generates ATP.
Proton Pumping
The active transport of hydrogen ions (protons) across a membrane, often creating a gradient used for energy production in cells.
Intermembrane Space
The region between the inner and outer membranes of mitochondria or chloroplasts, involved in energy production.
- Describe the function and processes of the electron transport chain and ATP synthase complex in ATP production.
Verified Answer
The electron flow in the ETC begins with the transfer of electrons from NADH and FADH2 to Complex I (NADH dehydrogenase) and Complex II (succinate dehydrogenase), respectively. From there, the electrons are passed through a series of protein complexes, including Complex III (cytochrome bc1 complex) and Complex IV (cytochrome c oxidase), before ultimately being transferred to oxygen, the final electron acceptor, to form water.
During this process, Complexes I, III, and IV pump protons from the mitochondrial matrix into the intermembrane space, creating an electrochemical gradient. This proton pumping generates a proton motive force, which is used by ATP synthase to produce ATP through oxidative phosphorylation.
In summary, the electron transport chain consists of multiple protein complexes, including Complexes I, III, and IV, which pump protons into the intermembrane space, ultimately leading to the production of ATP.
Learning Objectives
- Describe the function and processes of the electron transport chain and ATP synthase complex in ATP production.
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