What is the source of the energy used to generate the proton gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane?
A)ATP hydrolysis
B)redox reactions in the electron transport chain
C)decreasing the pH in the mitochondrial matrix
D)splitting water to form oxygen and protons

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The energy used to generate the proton gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane is from the redox reactions in the electron transport chain. As electrons are passed along the chain, some of the energy released is used to pump protons from the mitochondrial matrix to the intermembrane space, creating a proton gradient. This gradient is then used to generate ATP in the process of oxidative phosphorylation.

What Is the Source of the Energy Used to Generate