Oxygen plays _ role in respiration.

Correct answer: D. It is the final electron acceptor at the end of the electron transport chain

  • A. It combines with acetyl-CoA at the start of the Krebs cycle
  • B. It plays no role
  • C. It is given off as a by-product during the oxidation of pyruvates
  • D. It is the final electron acceptor at the end of the electron transport chain

Explanation

During oxidative phosphorylation, oxygen serves as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain. Electrons derived from the breakdown of glucose are passed through a series of protein complexes in the inner mitochondrial membrane, and oxygen ultimately accepts these electrons, forming water. This process is essential for the efficient production of ATP, the energy currency of the cell, from water molecules. The energy released by electrons is used for the generation of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation.

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