189k views
4 votes
Multiprotein respiratory complexes, known as ________, function to minimize diffusion distances and facilitate electron flow between the respiratory complexes.

a. Electron transport chains
b. Respiratory assemblies
c. Citric acid cycles
d. Oxidative phosphorylation complexes

User Xarbrough
by
7.3k points

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

Multiprotein respiratory complexes that facilitate electron flow between respiratory complexes are known as electron transport chains. These chains are comprised of protein complexes and mobile electron carriers which work within the inner mitochondrial membrane in eukaryotes or the plasma membrane in prokaryotes to drive aerobic respiration.

Step-by-step explanation:

Multiprotein respiratory complexes, known as electron transport chains, function to minimize diffusion distances and facilitate electron flow between the respiratory complexes. These complexes are integral for electron transport, playing a critical role in the final stages of aerobic respiration.

Complex I, III, and IV extend across the inner mitochondrial membrane and aid in pumping protons from the matrix to the intermembrane space, thus contributing to the proton gradient that drives ATP synthesis. Complex II, while also involved in electron transport, does not pump protons.

User Nicoowr
by
8.2k points