The inner mitochondrial membrane normally
A) is virtually impermeable to hydrogen ions protons).
B) contains permease channels that allow small ions and water to pass readily through the membrane by simple diffusion.
C) contains an active transport pump that pumps protons into the inner mitochondrial compartment from the point of high concentration to a point of lower concentration.
D) contains enzymes responsible for two of the chemical reactions that take place as part of glycolysis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The inner mitochondrial membrane contains the electron transport chain and ATP synthase, which use the proton gradient created by the active transport pump to generate ATP. Therefore, the membrane must be impermeable to hydrogen ions in order for this system to work efficiently. Permease channels and enzymes responsible for glycolysis are located in other parts of the mitochondria, such as the outer membrane and matrix.

The Inner Mitochondrial Membrane Normally