Molecular oxygen (O₂), which is required for the production of ATP by mitochondria, must pass through at least three membranes to get to the enzymes where it is used. O₂is also produced in chloroplasts and must pass through at least four membranes to be released from the plant. How does O₂move across biological membranes? A)There are numerous protein transporters that allow O₂to travel across membranes. B)O₂ is nonpolar and very small, so it can move by simple diffusion across the membrane. C)O₂ undergoes a chemical reaction that binds it to other substances that are transported across the membranes. D)O₂ is hydrophilic and travels with water across the membranes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Molecular oxygen (O2) is nonpolar and very small, allowing it to diffuse directly through the lipid bilayer of biological membranes without the need for specific transport proteins.

Molecular Oxygen (O2), Which Is Required for the Production of ATP

Molecular Oxygen (O₂), Which Is Required for the Production of ATP