What are the functions of the high-energy electrons in the electron transport chain?
They carry NADH and FADH 2
They make ATP from ADP
They create ATP synthase
They hold water bonds
The functions of high-energy electrons in the electron transport chain include:
1. Carrying NADH and FADH2: High-energy electrons produced during the oxidation of glucose and other molecules are carried by NADH and FADH2 to the electron transport chain. These electrons are then transferred from these carrier molecules to the electron carriers in the chain.
2. Generating ATP: As the high-energy electrons pass through the electron transport chain, they transfer their energy to pump protons (H+) across the inner mitochondrial membrane, creating an electrochemical gradient. This gradient is used by ATP synthase to generate ATP from ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and inorganic phosphate.
3. Creating ATP synthase: The flow of high-energy electrons through the electron transport chain leads to the establishment of the proton gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane. This gradient powers the ATP synthase enzyme, which uses the energy generated by the flow of protons back into the mitochondrial matrix to synthesize ATP.
4. No involvement in holding water bonds: High-energy electrons in the electron transport chain do not hold water bonds. The electron transport chain is primarily involved in the transfer of electrons and the generation of ATP, rather than directly participating in water molecule interactions.