Final answer:
The electron transport chain is responsible for generating ATP in cellular respiration by transferring high-energy electrons and pumping protons across the inner membrane of the mitochondria.
Step-by-step explanation:
The electron transport chain in cellular respiration is responsible for generating ATP in the mitochondria. This process involves the transfer of high-energy electrons from NADH and FADH2 to a series of electron carriers embedded in the inner membrane of the mitochondria.
As the electrons move along the electron transport chain, protons (H+) are pumped from the mitochondrial matrix into the intermembrane space, creating a proton gradient. This gradient drives the synthesis of ATP as protons flow back into the matrix through ATP synthase.