The primary role of oxygen in cellular respiration is to
A) donate high energy electrons to the electron transport chain.
B) serve as an acceptor for released carbon, forming CO₂.
C) serve as an acceptor for electrons and hydrogen, forming water.
D) combine with acetyl CoA, forming pyruvate.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The primary role of oxygen in cellular respiration is to serve as an acceptor for electrons and hydrogen, forming water. This occurs during the final stage of cellular respiration, the electron transport chain, where oxygen acts as the final electron acceptor, combining with hydrogen ions to form water. Without oxygen, the electron transport chain cannot function properly, and cellular respiration would not be able to generate as much energy.

The Primary Role of Oxygen in Cellular Respiration Is to