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What is the primary function of ATP synthase in oxidative phosphorylation?
  • a)
    Electron transport
  • b)
    ATP production
  • c)
    NADH oxidation
  • d)
    Carbon dioxide production
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?
Verified Answer
What is the primary function of ATP synthase in oxidative phosphorylat...
ATP synthase is an enzyme complex that plays a crucial role in oxidative phosphorylation. It utilizes the proton gradient generated by the electron transport chain to produce ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate. ATP synthase acts as a molecular machine that converts the potential energy stored in the proton gradient into the chemical energy of ATP.
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What is the primary function of ATP synthase in oxidative phosphorylat...
Primary Function of ATP Synthase
ATP synthase plays a crucial role in the process of oxidative phosphorylation, which is the final stage of cellular respiration.
Overview of Oxidative Phosphorylation
- This process occurs in the inner mitochondrial membrane.
- It involves the electron transport chain (ETC) and the generation of a proton gradient.
Role of ATP Synthase
- ATP synthase is an enzyme that synthesizes ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi).
- It harnesses the energy stored in the proton gradient created by the ETC.
Mechanism of Action
- As electrons are transferred through the ETC, protons (H+) are pumped from the mitochondrial matrix into the intermembrane space.
- This creates an electrochemical gradient, known as the proton motive force.
ATP Production
- Protons flow back into the mitochondrial matrix through ATP synthase.
- The movement of protons drives the rotation of a part of the ATP synthase enzyme.
- This mechanical rotation enables the conversion of ADP and Pi into ATP.
Conclusion
- While electron transport, NADH oxidation, and carbon dioxide production are important processes in cellular respiration, the primary function of ATP synthase is ATP production.
- This ATP is then utilized as the main energy currency of the cell, powering various biological processes.
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