What establishes an electrochemical gradient across a membrane to provide energy for ATP production?
A)The mitochondrion's electron transport system provides the ions
B)Hydrogen ions naturally collect on the outside of the organelle membrane
C)Hydrogen ions are pumped across the membrane by carrier proteins
D)All of the choices establish the electrochemical gradient

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hydrogen ions are pumped across the membrane by carrier proteins, establishing an electrochemical gradient. This gradient can then provide energy for ATP production. While the electron transport system in the mitochondrion does play a role in generating the hydrogen ions used in this process, it is the carrier proteins that actually create the gradient. Option B is not correct as hydrogen ions do not naturally collect on the outside of a membrane, but rather are actively transported across it. Option D is also not correct as the electron transport system does not establish the gradient itself.

What Establishes an Electrochemical Gradient Across a Membrane to Provide