Oxidative phosphorylation

Definition

Oxidative phosphorylation is the process by which cells generate ATP through the electron transport chain and chemiosmosis in the mitochondria. It is the final stage of cellular respiration, involving oxygen as the final electron acceptor.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oxidative phosphorylation occurs in the inner mitochondrial membrane.
2. It produces approximately 26-28 ATP molecules per glucose molecule.
3. The main components include NADH, FADH2, electron transport chain complexes, and ATP synthase.
4. Oxygen is essential as it acts as the terminal electron acceptor, forming water.
5. Proton gradients created by the electron transport chain drive ATP synthesis via chemiosmosis.

Review Questions

• What is the role of oxygen in oxidative phosphorylation?
• How many ATP molecules are typically produced during oxidative phosphorylation per glucose molecule?
• Where does oxidative phosphorylation occur within a cell?

Related terms

Electron Transport Chain:

A series of protein complexes that transfer electrons to create a proton gradient for ATP production.

Chemiosmosis:

The movement of protons across a membrane to drive ATP synthesis.

ATP Synthase:

An enzyme complex that synthesizes ATP using energy from a proton gradient.