Explain how ATP is generated from reduced NAD and reduced FAD via the electron transport chain?

Reduced NAD is oxidised at the first carrier of the electron transport chain and reduced FAD oxidised at the second. The free electrons move into the system of carriers within the membrane while the protons are initially released into the mitochondrial matrix. The energy generated from the electrons moving between the carriers is used to pump protons into the intermembrane space, setting up an electrochemical gradient.

The protons move back across the mitochondrial double membrane into the matrix via the ATP synthase carrier and this movement (called chemiosmosis) drives the binding of ADP and phosphate which generates ATP. The electrons from the last electron carrier and the protons from ATP synthase bind to oxygen (the terminal electron acceptor) which makes water.

LG
Answered by Lewis G. Biology tutor

17064 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do the different organelles in a eukaryotic cell work together to produce a hormone such as insulin?


What are enzymes and how do they work?


Give two similarities and two differences between the structure of starch and cellulose polysaccharides (4 marks).


How does DNA replication take place?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences