Question

In establishing proton gradient for chemiosmotic ATP generation by aerobic respiration, the terminal electron acceptor is:

a) Oxygen (O2)
b) Carbon dioxide (CO2)
c) Nitrogen (N2)
d) Hydrogen (H2)

Answer 1

In aerobic respiration, the terminal electron acceptor for creating a proton gradient in the chemiosmotic generation of ATP is oxygen.

Step-by-step explanation:

In establishing a proton gradient for chemiosmotic ATP generation by aerobic respiration, the terminal electron acceptor is oxygen . This is essential for the electron transport chain where the high-energy electrons derived from NADH or FADH2 are passed down a series of proteins, leading to the pumping of protons (H+) across the membrane to create a proton gradient. The movement of these protons back into the mitochondrial matrix powers ATP synthase, which produces ATP, with oxygen acting as the terminal electron acceptor to form water.