Summary
ATP synthesis driven by electron transport and the proton gradient across the inner membrane.
In depth
Most ATP of respiration (around 26 to 28 of about 30) comes from here. Oxidation of NADH is coupled to ATP synthesis via the proton gradient (Mitchell's chemiosmotic hypothesis, Nobel 1978).
This step makes the majority of ATP. It depends on an intact inner membrane and oxygen.
Common mistake: oxygen does not directly make ATP; it acts as final electron acceptor to keep the chain running.
Frequently asked questions
What is Oxidative Phosphorylation?
ATP synthesis driven by electron transport and the proton gradient across the inner membrane.
Which area of biology covers Oxidative Phosphorylation, and how advanced is it?
Oxidative Phosphorylation is one of the 53 topics in Metabolism & Bioenergetics. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Electron Transport Chain, Cellular Respiration, Light Reactions and ATP Synthesis.
Can you give an example of Oxidative Phosphorylation?
Oligomycin blocks ATP synthase.
What should I learn before Oxidative Phosphorylation?
Work through the Beginner topics in Metabolism & Bioenergetics first, such as Metabolism, Anabolism and Catabolism, ATP, then return to Oxidative Phosphorylation. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Oxidative Phosphorylation?
The closest topics to Oxidative Phosphorylation are Electron Transport Chain, Cellular Respiration, Light Reactions and ATP Synthesis, ATP. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Oxidative Phosphorylation?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Oxidative Phosphorylation. To practise the whole of Metabolism & Bioenergetics, use the Metabolism & Bioenergetics quiz.
How is Oxidative Phosphorylation different from Electron Transport Chain?
Oxidative Phosphorylation: ATP synthesis driven by electron transport and the proton gradient across the inner membrane. Electron Transport Chain: Protein complexes in the inner mitochondrial membrane pass electrons to oxygen while pumping protons. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
What is a common mistake about Oxidative Phosphorylation?
Oxygen does not directly make ATP; it acts as final electron acceptor to keep the chain running.
How should I study Oxidative Phosphorylation step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Electron Transport Chain and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Metabolism & Bioenergetics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.