Even though there are more protons in the intermembrane space of the mitochondria, protons do not diffuse from there into the matrix.Why not?
A) The inner mitochondrial membrane is not permeable to them.
B) This would require energy.
C) Only water diffuses, not protons.
D) They are not charged.
E) Actually, they do diffuse.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The inner mitochondrial membrane is impermeable to protons, which prevents their diffusion from the intermembrane space into the matrix. This is a key feature that allows the mitochondrial electron transport chain to function properly, creating a proton gradient used to generate ATP.

Even Though There Are More Protons in the Intermembrane Space