ATP synthase, located in the inner membrane, utilizes the proton gradient generated during oxidative phosphorylation to convert ADP and inorganic phosphate into ATP, playing a vital role in cellular energy production. Here option D is correct.
ATP synthase plays a crucial role in the production of ATP through a process known as oxidative phosphorylation, which occurs in the inner mitochondrial membrane in eukaryotic cells and the plasma membrane in prokaryotic cells. The enzyme is part of the electron transport chain (ETC), specifically involved in the final step of ATP production.
During oxidative phosphorylation, electrons are transferred through a series of protein complexes in the inner membrane. This generates a proton gradient across the membrane. ATP synthase harnesses the energy stored in this proton gradient to convert ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and inorganic phosphate (P) into ATP.
As protons flow back into the mitochondrial matrix or the cell's cytoplasm through ATP synthase, the enzyme catalyzes the synthesis of ATP, making it a fundamental component in cellular energy production. Here option D is correct.