Question

When one molecule of glucose is completely oxidized into $C{O}_2$ and $H_{2}O$, How many ATP are generated by proton gradient?

• A. 36 or 38
• B. 38 or 40
• C. 34 or 32
• D. 36 or 34

Answer 1

The correct option is C 34 or 32

The electron transport chain is a series of proteins and organic molecules found in the inner membrane of the mitochondria. Electrons are passed from one member of the transport chain to another in a series of redox reactions. Energy released in these reactions is captured as a proton gradient, which is then used to make ATP in a process called chemiosmosis. Together, the electron transport chain and chemiosmosis make up oxidative phosphorylation.
The maximum ATP yield for a molecule of glucose generated by proton gradient is around 32-34 ATP as ATP : NADH and ATP : $FAD{H}_2$ ratios during the oxidative phosphorylation appear to be 2.5 and 1.5 rather than 3 and 2 respectively. .