Out of 38 ATP molecules produced per molecule of glucose, 32 ATP molec...
This potential is then used to drive ATP synthase and produce ATP from ADP and a phosphate group.38 ATP molecules can be made per oxidised glucose molecule during cellular respiration (2 from glycolysis, 2 from the Krebs cycle, and about 34 from the electron transport system).
Out of 38 ATP molecules produced per molecule of glucose, 32 ATP molec...
Respiratory Chain
The majority of ATP molecules are produced in the respiratory chain, also known as the electron transport chain, during cellular respiration.
Process
- NADH and FADH2, generated during glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and other metabolic pathways, donate electrons to the respiratory chain.
- These electrons are then passed through a series of protein complexes, generating a proton gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane.
- The flow of protons back through ATP synthase leads to the phosphorylation of ADP to ATP, producing the majority of ATP in the process.
ATP Production
- For each molecule of NADH passing through the respiratory chain, approximately 2.5 to 3 ATP molecules are produced.
- For each FADH2 molecule, about 1.5 to 2 ATP molecules are generated.
- Therefore, the respiratory chain is responsible for the production of the majority of ATP molecules during cellular respiration.
Conclusion
In the case of glucose metabolism, the majority of ATP molecules (32 out of 38) are produced in the respiratory chain from the electrons donated by NADH and FADH2. This highlights the crucial role of the respiratory chain in energy production within cells.