Question

The conversion of the potential energy of a proton gradient to a form more useful to the cell is achieved by coupling the movement of protons down their electrochemical gradient with the synthesis of ATP. This coupling is made possible by:_________

Answer 1

Answer: ATP synthase

Explanation:

ATP synthase is a protein assembly in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Proton pumping ATP synthase is a multisubunit transmembrane protein. The proton pumps expel H+ from inside to outside of the inner membrane.

So there is high H+ concentration outside the inner membrane. This causes H+ to enter into the mitochondria. This proton influx causes ATP synthesis by ATP synthase.