The immediate energy source that drives ATP synthesis by ATP synthase during oxidative phosphorylation is the A)oxidation of glucose and other organic compounds. B)flow of electrons down the electron transport chain. C)H⁺ concentration gradient across the membrane holding ATP synthase. D)transfer of phosphate to ADP.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The concentration gradient of hydrogen ions (protons), represented by H⁺, is established during electron transport chain (ETC). The transport of electrons by ETC leads to the pumping of protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane to form a gradient. This gradient drives the flow of protons back across the membrane via ATP synthase, causing the enzyme to spin and produce ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate. Therefore, the immediate energy source that drives ATP synthesis by ATP synthase during oxidative phosphorylation is the concentration gradient of protons across the mitochondrial inner membrane.

The Immediate Energy Source That Drives ATP Synthesis by ATP