Which substance carries hydrogen to the electron transport chain?

Prepare for the AQA A-Level PE Energy Systems Exam. Study with comprehensive flashcards and multiple-choice questions, featuring hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

Which substance carries hydrogen to the electron transport chain?

Explanation:
Hydrogen carriers deliver the incoming electrons and associated protons to the electron transport chain, and the substance that does this in cellular respiration is NADH. It is formed when NAD+ picks up electrons and protons during glycolysis, the link reaction, and the Krebs cycle. NADH then donates those electrons to the chain (oxidizing back to NAD+ in the process) and releases protons into the gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane, which powers ATP synthase to make ATP. Oxygen sits at the end of the chain as the final electron acceptor, forming water, while CO2 and pyruvate are metabolic intermediates rather than carriers to the chain.

Hydrogen carriers deliver the incoming electrons and associated protons to the electron transport chain, and the substance that does this in cellular respiration is NADH. It is formed when NAD+ picks up electrons and protons during glycolysis, the link reaction, and the Krebs cycle. NADH then donates those electrons to the chain (oxidizing back to NAD+ in the process) and releases protons into the gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane, which powers ATP synthase to make ATP. Oxygen sits at the end of the chain as the final electron acceptor, forming water, while CO2 and pyruvate are metabolic intermediates rather than carriers to the chain.

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