Electron transport chain Original Scenario-Based Practice

Questions

1. 1.

   Astrobiologists designing bio-batteries for deep-space probes develop a synthetic mitochondrion called Chronos-M, which relies on a functional electron transport chain across its inner membrane. During high-output testing, researchers administer a synthetic channel molecule that freely permeates protons across the inner membrane directly into the matrix, completely bypassing ATP synthase. Assuming an abundant supply of NADH and oxygen, which outcome will the researchers observe regarding metabolic activity in these organelles?

   • A) ATP synthesis increases significantly because protons cross the inner membrane at an accelerated rate.
   • B) Both oxygen consumption and ATP synthesis halt completely because electron movement strictly requires a high proton-motive force.
   • C) ATP synthesis remains unaffected, but oxygen consumption ceases because electrons are directly trapped by the channel molecule.
   • D) Oxygen consumption continues or accelerates, while ATP synthesis drops sharply due to the dissipation of the proton-motive force.

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