5.4 Oxidative phosphorylation

Question 1

Where does the ETC take place?

Answer 1

The inner mitochondrial membrane

Question 2

What is the ETC?

Answer 2

A series of carrier proteins embedded in the membrane of the cristae
Electrons flow from reduced NAD or reduced FAD
Each electron is passed down from one energy level to another through redox reactions, driving the production of ATP

Question 3

How does the structure of the mitochondria affect oxidative phosphorylation

Answer 3

Inner membrane is folded up to form cristae
Cristae are covered with closely packed stalked particles which are the sites of ATP synthase enzymes

Question 4

What is oxidative phosphorylation?

Answer 4

The process in which ATP is synthesised via chemiosmosis in the electron transport chain
Generates the majority of ATP

Question 5

What is the role of oxygen as a terminal electron acceptor?

Answer 5

Produces water

Question 6

How does chemiosmosis synthesise ATP?

Answer 6

Hydrogen ions are actively transported into the space between the inner and outer mitochondrial membranes using the energy provided as the electrons pass along the ETC
As a result the conc. of the H ions in the intermembrane increases
H ions diffuse back into the matrix, down the electrochemical and concentration gradients