Cyanide poisoning quickly leads to death because it blocks the final cytochrome molecule in the electron transport system.Why is this blockage lethal?

Question

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The final cytochrome molecule is responsible for transferring the electrons to oxygen to form water. Since electron transfer is blocked, oxygen cannot be reduced, and the electron transport chain comes to a halt. This means that the hydrogen ion pumps cannot pump protons across the mitochondrial membrane, which leads to the accumulation of protons in the intermembrane space. This high concentration of protons will favor the diffusion of protons back into the matrix. This creates a proton gradient collapse and reduces the ATP production required for the essential life-sustaining functions. This results in cell death, and if untreated, it can lead to death of the organism.

Cyanide Poisoning Quickly Leads to Death Because It Blocks the Final