In the complete reactions of aerobic respiration, the energy for the majority of ATP synthesis is provided by
A) transfer of electrons from organic molecules to acetyl CoA.
B) high-energy phosphate bonds from organic molecule intermediates in the citric acid cycle.
C) splitting water to produce oxygen.
D) a proton gradient across a membrane.
E) the production of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the electron transport chain.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The majority of ATP synthesis during aerobic respiration is generated by the formation of a proton gradient across a membrane, which is then harnessed to drive ATP synthesis by the ATP synthase enzyme. This proton gradient is generated by the oxidation of electron carriers (NADH and FADH2) in the electron transport chain, which is coupled to the transfer of protons across the mitochondrial inner membrane. Thus, option D is the best choice.

In the Complete Reactions of Aerobic Respiration, the Energy for the Majority