What molecule is the final electron acceptor in aerobic respiration?

Prepare for the JBL Module 2 Test with comprehensive study materials. Utilize multiple choice and flashcard tools, each question comes with hints and explanations. Enhance your exam readiness today!

Multiple Choice

What molecule is the final electron acceptor in aerobic respiration?

Explanation:
Oxygen is the final electron acceptor in aerobic respiration. In the mitochondrial electron transport chain, electrons are passed from NADH and FADH2 through a series of protein complexes and finally to oxygen, which accepts those electrons along with protons to form water. This step is what allows the chain to keep moving and powers ATP production by pumping protons to create a gradient that drives ATP synthase. Without oxygen, the chain stalls and oxidative phosphorylation drops off. Carbon dioxide is a waste product, not an electron acceptor, and nitrogen or hydrogen aren’t used as the terminal acceptors in aerobic respiration.

Oxygen is the final electron acceptor in aerobic respiration. In the mitochondrial electron transport chain, electrons are passed from NADH and FADH2 through a series of protein complexes and finally to oxygen, which accepts those electrons along with protons to form water. This step is what allows the chain to keep moving and powers ATP production by pumping protons to create a gradient that drives ATP synthase. Without oxygen, the chain stalls and oxidative phosphorylation drops off. Carbon dioxide is a waste product, not an electron acceptor, and nitrogen or hydrogen aren’t used as the terminal acceptors in aerobic respiration.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy