Final answer:
The energy from the movement of electrons in the electron transport chain is used to pump hydrogen ions to establish an electrochemical gradient, which is then used to produce ATP.
Step-by-step explanation:
The energy from the movement of electrons in the electron transport chain is used to pump hydrogen ions across the inner membrane of the mitochondria, establishing an electrochemical gradient. This gradient is then used to drive the synthesis of ATP through the process of chemiosmosis.
As the high-energy electrons move along the electron transport chain, their energy is captured and used to power the proton pumps, creating a proton-motive force that is ultimately used to produce ATP.