The production of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation is driven by energy from

Options

A. coenzyme A
B. cytochromes
C. formation of NADH
D. diffusion of protons from inter membrane space to the matrix of mitochondrion

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Oxidative Phosphorylation**: Oxidative phosphorylation is a process that occurs in the mitochondria, where ATP is produced as a result of the transfer of electrons through the electron transport chain (ETC).

2. **Role of NADH and FADH2**: The process begins with the oxidation of NADH and FADH2, which donate electrons to the electron transport chain. These coenzymes are crucial for the initiation of the electron flow.

3. **Electron Transport Chain (ETC)**: The electrons from NADH and FADH2 pass through a series of protein complexes in the inner mitochondrial membrane, known as the electron transport chain. As electrons move through these complexes, they release energy.

4. **Proton Transfer**: The energy released from the electron flow is used to pump protons (H⁺ ions) from the mitochondrial matrix into the intermembrane space. This creates a proton gradient (higher concentration of protons in the intermembrane space compared to the matrix) and an electric gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane.

5. **Proton Motive Force**: The proton gradient established creates a potential energy difference, known as the proton motive force. This force is essential for ATP synthesis.

6. **ATP Synthase**: Protons can only re-enter the mitochondrial matrix through specific channels in the ATP synthase complex, which acts as a turbine. As protons flow back into the matrix through ATP synthase, the energy from this movement drives the conversion of ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi) into ATP.

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the production of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation is primarily driven by the diffusion of protons from the intermembrane space back into the mitochondrial matrix through ATP synthase.

**Final Answer**: The production of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation is driven by the diffusion of protons from the intermembrane space to the matrix of mitochondria.

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