Question

The following reaction is part of the electron transport chain. Complete the reaction and identify which species is reduced. The abbreviation Q represents coenzyme Q. Use the appropriate abbreviation for the product.
FADH2 + Q →

The reactant that is reduced is: _____

Answer 1

Answer:

$FADH_2 + Q --> FAD + QH_2$

The reactant that is reduced is $FADH_2$

Explanation:

The complete equation is as below:

$FADH_2 + Q --> FAD + QH_2$

Recall that oxidation involves the gain of electrons while reduction involves the loss of electrons.

In the above reaction, $FADH_2$ loses electrons to coenzyme Q and becomes reduced to FAD, hence the oxidizing agent. Coenzyme Q gains electrons and becomes oxidized to $QH_2$ , hence the reducing agent.

In order words, $FADH_2$ is reduced while coenzyme Q is oxidized.