When hydrogen ions are pumped from the mitochondrial matrix across the inner membrane and into the intermembrane space, the result is
A) the formation of ATP.
B) the reduction of NAD+.
C) the restoration of the Na+/K+ balance across the membrane.
D) the creation of a proton-motive force.
E) the lowering of pH in the mitochondrial matrix.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The pumping of hydrogen ions from the mitochondrial matrix to the intermembrane space creates a proton-motive force, which can be used to generate ATP through oxidative phosphorylation. This process involves the flow of protons back into the matrix through ATP synthase, which generates ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate. The other options (A, B, C, and E) are not directly related to the movement of hydrogen ions across the membrane.

When Hydrogen Ions Are Pumped from the Mitochondrial Matrix Across