The direct energy source that drives ATP synthesis during respiratory oxidative phosphorylation in eukaryotic cells is
A) oxidation of glucose to CO2 and water.
B) the thermodynamically favorable flow of electrons from NADH to the mitochondrial electron transport carriers.
C) the final transfer of electrons to oxygen.
D) the proton-motive force across the inner mitochondrial membrane.
E) the thermodynamically favorable transfer of phosphate from glycolysis and the citric acid cycle intermediate molecules of ADP.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The direct energy source that drives ATP synthesis during respiratory oxidative phosphorylation in eukaryotic cells is the proton-motive force across the inner mitochondrial membrane. This force is created by the electron transport chain pumping protons across the membrane and establishing a gradient. The energy stored in this gradient is then used by ATP synthase to synthesize ATP.

The Direct Energy Source That Drives ATP Synthesis During Respiratory