Suppose you discovered a mutant strain of spinach in which the thylakoid membranes were slightly permeable to protons, thus allowing a slow leakage. (Remember that normal membranes are not permeable to protons at all.) How might this defect affect the yield of ATP and/or NADPH from the light reactions?
A)NADPH yield would decrease.
B)NADPH yield would increase.
C)ATP yield would decrease.
D)ATP yield would increase.
E)There would be no change.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The proton gradient across the thylakoid membrane is crucial for ATP synthesis in chloroplasts. If the membrane is permeable to protons, the gradient would dissipate, reducing the efficiency of ATP synthesis.

Suppose You Discovered a Mutant Strain of Spinach in Which