Question

Cyanide binds to at least one molecule involved in producing ATP. If a cell is exposed to cyanide, most of the cyanide will be found within the

a. mitochondria.
b. ribosomes.
c. peroxisomes.
d. lysosomes.

Answer 1

Cyanide binds to cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria, inhibiting the electron transport chain and ATP synthesis. As a result, the pH of the mitochondrial intermembrane space increases, and ATP production is significantly impaired.

Step-by-step explanation:

The molecule that cyanide binds to involved in the production of ATP is cytochrome c oxidase, which is a component of the electron transport chain within the mitochondria. When cells are exposed to cyanide, we would expect to find most of the cyanide within the mitochondria because that is where cytochrome c oxidase is located.

If cyanide poisoning occurs, the pH of the intermembrane space of the mitochondria would be expected to increase. This is because cyanide binding to cytochrome c oxidase prevents the transfer of electrons to oxygen, which stops the flow of hydrogen ions (protons) into the intermembrane space. Without the movement of protons, the intermembrane space becomes less acidic, causing an increase in pH. Additionally, this disruption in the electron transport chain caused by cyanide significantly inhibits ATP synthesis, as the proton gradient that drives the production of ATP through ATP synthase is no longer maintained.

Answer 2

Mitochondria.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mitochondria is a semi-autonomous organelle that contains their own genetic material. The electron transport chain occurs inside the mitochondria and results in the formation of ATP.

Cyanide is a chemical that acts as the inhibitor of electron transport chain and result in decrease production of ATP. Cyanide binds with Complex IV of electron transport chain present inside the inner mitochondrial membrane.

Thus, the answer is option (a).