NEET · BiologyHard

Consider the mitochondrial electron transport chain. If the ratio of ATP produced to oxygen atoms consumed (P/O ratio) for NADH is , what is the theoretical maximum number of protons pumped across the inner mitochondrial membrane per NADH molecule oxidized?

  1. A.6 protons
  2. B.8 protons
  3. C.10 protons
  4. D.12 protons
Show correct answer & step-by-step solution

Correct answer: C10 protons

Solution

  1. Complex I pumps 4 protons, Complex III pumps 4 protons, and Complex IV pumps 2 protons.
  2. The total number of protons pumped per NADH is $4 + 4 + 2 = 10$.
  3. The P/O ratio of is consistent with the consumption of approximately protons per ATP synthesized.
  4. Hence the answer is (C).

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