[Campbell Biology P.234] The immediate energy source that directly drives ATP synthesis by A... | Practice Question

The immediate energy source that directly drives ATP synthesis by ATP synthase during oxidative phosphorylation is the:

  • A: oxidation of glucose and other organic compounds.
  • B: flow of electrons down the electron transport chain.
  • C: H+ concentration gradient across the membrane holding ATP synthase.
  • D: transfer of phosphate to ADP.

Explanation

ATP synthase functions by utilizing the potential energy stored in the H+ proton concentration gradient proton-motive force across the membrane. As H+ ions flow down their electrochemical gradient through ATP synthase, the energy released drives the phosphorylation of ADP to form ATP.