1. Describe chemiosmosis as it relates to oxidative phosphorylation.
Chemiosmosis occurs at the inner membrane. It involves the movement of protons (hydrogen ions) across a membrane (down its concentration gradient) to provide energy so that oxidative phosphorylation (ATP synthesis) can occur. Hydrogen ions build up in the intermembrane space, creating a high concentration and a proton force. This allows the movement of hydrogen ions through the enzyme ATP synthase. The enzyme uses energy from the hydrogen flow to couple phosphate with ADP to produce ATP.
2. What is the role of oxygen in the ETC?
Oxygen is the final electron acceptor in the ETC. Oxygen also accepts hydrogen ions to form water. If oxygen is not available, the electron flow along the ETC stops, but glycolysis can still occur.
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