Energy Generation in Mitochondria and Chloroplasts

A series of flashcards to aid in the review of key concepts related to energy generation in mitochondria and chloroplasts, including processes, structures, and functions.

What are the two primary processes of ATP generation in mitochondria and chloroplasts?

Oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria and photosynthesis in chloroplasts.

What is the role of ATP synthase in the process of ATP production?

ATP synthase uses the potential energy of the proton gradient to synthesize ATP.

How do mitochondria and chloroplasts share similarities with bacteria?

They have their own DNA, ribosomes that resemble bacterial ribosomes, and they undergo division like bacteria.

What is the proton gradient and why is it important in mitochondrial ATP production?

The proton gradient is created by pumping protons across the inner membrane to create potential energy that powers ATP synthase.

What is the primary function of the electron transport chain (ETC) in mitochondria?

The ETC transfers electrons and pumps protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane to create a proton gradient.

What is the terminal electron acceptor in the mitochondrial electron transport chain?

Oxygen, which combines with electrons and H+ to form water.

What happens in the mitochondria if there is no oxygen present?

The electron transport chain stops, leading to no proton pumping and no ATP production.

What is the role of NADH in the mitochondrial energy generation process?

NADH donates high-energy electrons to the electron transport chain.

Why is the inner mitochondrial membrane highly folded?

To provide a larger surface area for embedded protein complexes involved in ATP production.

What is the significance of the redox potential in the electron transport chain?

Molecules with higher redox potential have a higher affinity for electrons, facilitating the flow of electrons through the chain.

What is the main difference between light-dependent and light-independent reactions in photosynthesis?

Light-dependent reactions use light to produce ATP and NADPH; light-independent reactions use ATP and NADPH to synthesize glucose.

What type of light does chlorophyll absorb most effectively?

Chlorophyll absorbs red and blue light, reflecting green light.

What is formed as a waste product during photosystem II?

Oxygen is formed as a waste product when water donates low energy electrons.

What do photosystem II and photosystem I produce, respectively?

Photosystem II produces ATP, and photosystem I produces NADPH.

What is the overall purpose of photosynthesis?

To convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of organic molecules like glucose.