Question

Name the respiratory reaction in which production of reduced coenzymes, and then its reoxidation, drives ATP synthesis:

• A. Oxidative phosphorylation
• B. Amino acid degradation
• C. Fatty acid oxidation
• D. The citric acid cycle

Hint:

Oxidative phosphorylation:
NADH \(\rightarrow\) ETC \(\rightarrow\) O\(_2\) \(\rightarrow\) ATP.
Site: inner mitochondrial membrane.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
ATP synthesis is coupled to oxidation-reduction reactions.
The process involves the electron transport chain.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
No specific formula.
Need to understand oxidative phosphorylation.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Oxidative phosphorylation is the process where:
- Reduced coenzymes (NADH, FADH\(_2\)) are produced.
- These coenzymes are reoxidized in the electron transport chain.
- The energy released drives ATP synthesis.
Thus, this is the respiratory reaction.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Oxidative phosphorylation drives ATP synthesis.
Hence, the correct option is (A).