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Attempt either A or B - Scottish Highers Biology - Question 3 - 2019
Question 3
Attempt either A or B. Write your answer in the space below. A Write an account of ATP synthesis in the electron transport chain during cellular respiration. OR B... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Attempt either A or B - Scottish Highers Biology - Question 3 - 2019
Step 1
Write an account of ATP synthesis in the electron transport chain during cellular respiration.
Answer
ATP synthesis occurs in the mitochondria during cellular respiration, specifically within the electron transport chain (ETC).
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Location: The electron transport chain is situated on the inner membrane (or cristae) of the mitochondrion.
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Electron Carriers: NADH and FADH₂ molecules produced in earlier stages of respiration donate electrons and hydrogen ions to carriers within the ETC.
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Electron Transfer: Electrons are transferred through a series of carriers, which include proteins embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane, leading to a gradual release of energy.
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Proton Pumping: This energy is harnessed to pump hydrogen ions (H⁺) from the mitochondrial matrix into the intermembrane space, creating a proton gradient.
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Chemiosmosis: The buildup of protons in the intermembrane space creates potential energy that drives hydrogen ions back through the enzyme ATP synthase.
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ATP Production: As hydrogen ions flow through ATP synthase, ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi) combine to form ATP. This process is known as oxidative phosphorylation.