Final answer:
The correct order of electron acceptors in the electron transport chain is Cytochrome c, Cytochrome c oxidase (Complex IV), and then Oxygen, where oxygen acts as the final electron acceptor.
Step-by-step explanation:
The proper order in which the electron acceptors participate in the electron transport chain is as follows:
Cytochrome c oxidase (Complex IV) - This complex accepts electrons from Cytochrome c, facilitates the reduction of oxygen, and contributes to the proton gradient by pumping protons across the membrane.
Oxygen - It is the final electron acceptor in the chain, receiving electrons from Complex IV and being reduced to water (H2O).
Cytochrome c travels between Complex III (cytochrome oxidoreductase) and Complex IV along the inner membrane's surface facing intermembrane space. Complex IV, composed of cytochrome a, and a3, ultimately transfers the electrons to oxygen, tightly holding it between the iron and copper ions until it is fully reduced to water.