Question

What does the buildup of hydrogen ions cause to happen in the mitochondria?

A) a flow of electrons through the transport chain
B) a flow of hydrogen ions through a protein
C) a buildup of ATP in the inner mitochondrion
D) none of the above

Answer 1

The buildup of hydrogen ions in the mitochondria causes a flow of hydrogen ions through a protein complex called ATP synthase, which generates ATP.

Step-by-step explanation:

The buildup of hydrogen ions in the mitochondria causes a flow of hydrogen ions through a protein. This process is known as chemiosmosis and occurs in the inner mitochondrial membrane. The flow of hydrogen ions through the ATP synthase complex generates the energy needed for the synthesis of ATP.