Final answer:
Each proton does not generate three ATP; rather, it takes approximately three to four protons to synthesize one ATP molecule through ATP synthase during oxidative phosphorylation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that each proton passing through ATP synthase generates 3 ATP is false. The process of oxidative phosphorylation involves the synthesis of ATP as protons (H+) flow through ATP synthase. According to the chemiosmotic theory, it takes about three to four H+ ions to synthesize one molecule of ATP. In cellular respiration, the movement of protons (H+) across the cristal membrane through ATP synthase is what drives the synthesis of ATP. However, the actual number of ATP generated per proton passing through ATP synthase is not fixed at 3. The exact number of ATP molecules generated per proton passing through ATP synthase depends on various factors, including the overall efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation and the specific conditions of the cell.
A single 360° turn of the F1 subunit inside the F1(aβ)3 complex, which is part of ATP synthase, requires the flow of 12 protons and results in the production of three ATP molecules. This translates to an average of one ATP being produced for every three or four protons that pass through the ATP synthase complex.