Which of the following is the best definition of oxidative phosphorylation? A) A proton gradient allows hydrogen ions to flow back into the cells through transmembrane protein channels, releasing energy that is used to generate ATP. B) Electrons are passed through a series of carriers to O₂. C) Electrons are passed through a series of carriers to an organic compound. D) ATP is directly transferred from a substrate to ADP.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Oxidative phosphorylation is the process by which ATP is synthesized from the energy released by the transfer of electrons from electron donors to electron acceptors in the presence of oxygen. In this process, a proton gradient is established across a membrane, which allows hydrogen ions (protons) to flow back into the cells through transmembrane protein channels. This flow of protons releases energy that is used to generate ATP. Option A describes this process accurately. Option B describes the electron transport chain, which is a part of oxidative phosphorylation. Option C is incorrect as electrons are not passed to an organic compound in oxidative phosphorylation. Option D describes substrate-level phosphorylation, which is a different process of ATP synthesis.

Which of the Following Is the Best Definition of Oxidative