Microbiology: Respiration, Lithotrophy, and Photosynthesis

Flashcards covering key concepts from lectures on respiration, lithotrophy, and photosynthesis in microbiology.

Electron Transport System (ETS)

A series of membrane-soluble proteins and carriers that sequentially transfer electrons.

Organotrophy

A form of metabolism where organic molecules serve as the electron donors.

Lithotrophy

A type of metabolism in which inorganic molecules act as electron donors.

Phototrophy

Metabolism that uses light energy to produce ATP.

Chemiosmotic Potential

The potential energy stored in the form of an electrochemical gradient across a membrane.

Proton Motive Force (PMF)

The gradient of protons across a membrane that drives ATP synthesis.

NADH

A coenzyme that carries electrons from glycolysis to the electron transport system.

Terminal Electron Acceptor

The final molecule that accepts electrons at the end of an electron transport chain.

Reduction Potential (ΔE)

The tendency of a compound to gain electrons, measured in volts (V) or millivolts (mV).

Anaerobic Respiration

The process of respiration that uses terminal electron acceptors other than oxygen.