Which of the following statements concerning the electron transport chain is false? a. The final electron acceptor is oxygen. b. Each NADH yields three ATP molecules. c. Each FADH2 yields two ATP molecules. d. The electron transport chain will work whether oxygen is present or not.

Sourav PanDecember 12, 2024

Answered step-by-step

The correct answer is:

d. The electron transport chain will work whether oxygen is present or not.

Explanation:

• a. The final electron acceptor is oxygen: This is true. Oxygen is the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain, where it combines with electrons and protons to form water.
• b. Each NADH yields three ATP molecules: This is true in most cases. Each NADH molecule contributes to the production of approximately 3 ATP molecules via oxidative phosphorylation.
• c. Each FADH2 yields two ATP molecules: This is true. FADH2 contributes to the production of approximately 2 ATP molecules through the electron transport chain.
• d. The electron transport chain will work whether oxygen is present or not: This is false. The electron transport chain requires oxygen to function properly. Oxygen serves as the final electron acceptor; without it, the electron transport chain cannot proceed, and ATP production via oxidative phosphorylation will be disrupted.