According to the chemiosmotic theory, the energy for the synthesis of ATP during the flow of electrons down the respiratory chain is provided directly by the

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The chemiosmotic theory states that the energy for ATP synthesis is provided by the diffusion of protons (H+) across the inner mitochondrial membrane, down their electrochemical gradient, and through ATP synthase. This generates the energy necessary to phosphorylate ADP to ATP.

Therefore, the correct answer is C – diffusion of protons. The other options do not directly provide the energy required for ATP synthesis during electron transport chain activity. Hydrolysis of GTP or ATP occurs after ATP synthesis, while reduction of NADPH and FADH2 only transfer electrons down the respiratory chain, but do not directly supply energy for ATP synthesis.

According to the Chemiosmotic Theory, the Energy for the Synthesis