The electron transport chain occurs in the inner mitochondrial membrane in eukaryotic cells, where its components are embedded to facilitate electron transfer and proton pumping. In prokaryotes, which lack mitochondria, the chain takes place in the plasma membrane. This localization allows the generation of a proton gradient, which is necessary for ATP synthesis.

Biochemistry
Questions answers on GATE Life Sciences (XL)
Where does the electron transport chain occur?
The location of the electron transport chain is consistent with its function. In eukaryotes, it is embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane, and in prokaryotes, it is situated in the plasma membrane. These membranes are essential for maintaining the proton gradient required for ATP production, ensuring efficient energy conversion for cellular activities.
Where is the electron transport chain located?
The ETC is located in the inner mitochondrial membrane in eukaryotes. This membrane separates the mitochondrial matrix from the intermembrane space. The location is critical because the membrane’s impermeability to protons allows the establishment of a proton gradient. In prokaryotes, the chain is found in the plasma membrane, where it serves a similar function in … Read more
What is the role of oxygen in the electron transport chain?
Oxygen acts as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain. After electrons have been passed through the protein complexes, they are transferred to oxygen, which reacts with free protons to form water. This step is crucial because it ensures the continuation of electron flow through the chain, preventing a bottleneck that would halt … Read more
Where in the cell do the Krebs cycle and electron transport chain occur?
The Krebs cycle occurs in the mitochondrial matrix, the innermost compartment of the mitochondrion, where enzymes for the cycle are located. The electron transport chain, in contrast, is embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane. This spatial separation allows the products of the Krebs cycle, NADH and FADH2, to feed electrons directly into the chain for … Read more
How do you use a codon chart?
How do you use a codon chart?
How to read a codon chart?
How to read a codon chart?
What methods are used to diagnose complex V deficiencies?
What methods are used to diagnose complex V deficiencies?
How is the assembly of ATP synthase regulated?
How is the assembly of ATP synthase regulated?
What are the proposed pathways for ATP synthase assembly in yeast?
What are the proposed pathways for ATP synthase assembly in yeast?