List the energy yield in ATP molecules for each of the following:


a. FADH₂ → FAD

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the role of FADH₂ in cellular respiration. FADH₂ is a coenzyme that participates in the electron transport chain, where it donates electrons.
2. Understand that FADH₂ is oxidized to FAD in the electron transport chain, releasing electrons that are used to pump protons across the mitochondrial membrane.
3. Recognize that the movement of protons back across the membrane through ATP synthase drives the synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate.
4. Recall that each FADH₂ molecule typically results in the production of approximately 1.5 ATP molecules during oxidative phosphorylation.
5. Summarize that the energy yield from the oxidation of one FADH₂ molecule to FAD is approximately 1.5 ATP molecules.

Key Concepts

Electron Transport Chain

The electron transport chain (ETC) is a series of protein complexes located in the inner mitochondrial membrane that facilitate the transfer of electrons from electron donors like FADH₂ to electron acceptors. This process generates a proton gradient that drives ATP synthesis through oxidative phosphorylation, ultimately producing ATP as a result of the energy released during electron transfer.

FADH₂ and ATP Yield

FADH₂ is a reduced form of flavin adenine dinucleotide that plays a crucial role in cellular respiration. When FADH₂ is oxidized back to FAD in the electron transport chain, it contributes to the production of ATP. Typically, the oxidation of one molecule of FADH₂ yields approximately 1.5 ATP molecules, as it enters the ETC at a lower energy level compared to NADH.

Oxidative Phosphorylation

Oxidative phosphorylation is the final stage of cellular respiration, where ATP is produced using the energy derived from the electron transport chain. This process involves the transfer of electrons through a series of complexes, leading to the pumping of protons across the mitochondrial membrane, which creates a proton motive force. ATP synthase then utilizes this force to convert ADP and inorganic phosphate into ATP.