The final electron acceptor of the electron transport chain that functions in aerobic oxidative phosphorylation is a. oxygen. b. water. c. NAD+. d. pyruvate.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the process being discussed: The question refers to the electron transport chain in aerobic oxidative phosphorylation, which is a key part of cellular respiration occurring in the mitochondria.
2. Understand the role of the electron transport chain: It involves a series of electron carriers that pass electrons derived from nutrients to progressively more electronegative carriers, ultimately transferring them to a final electron acceptor.
3. Recall the final electron acceptor: In aerobic conditions, the final electron acceptor must be a molecule that can efficiently accept electrons and combine with protons to form a stable product.
4. Analyze the options given: Oxygen (a) is known to accept electrons and protons to form water, a stable molecule, at the end of the electron transport chain. Water (b) is a product, not an acceptor. NAD+ (c) and pyruvate (d) are involved earlier in respiration, not at this stage.

Key Concepts

Electron Transport Chain (ETC)

The electron transport chain is a series of protein complexes and other molecules located in the inner mitochondrial membrane. It plays a crucial role in cellular respiration by transferring electrons from electron donors like NADH and FADH2 to electron acceptors. This process generates a proton gradient that drives ATP synthesis through oxidative phosphorylation.

Aerobic Oxidative Phosphorylation

Aerobic oxidative phosphorylation is the final stage of cellular respiration, where ATP is produced using energy derived from the transfer of electrons through the ETC. Oxygen serves as the final electron acceptor, allowing for the formation of water as a byproduct. This process is essential for the efficient production of ATP in aerobic organisms.

Role of Oxygen

Oxygen is vital in aerobic respiration as it acts as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain. When electrons are transferred to oxygen, it combines with protons to form water, which is crucial for maintaining the flow of electrons through the chain. Without oxygen, the entire process of aerobic respiration would halt, leading to a significant decrease in ATP production.