Question

No. of ATP, protons and electrons required for the formation of 6NH$_3$ molecules in biological nitrogen fixation.

• A. 8, 8, 16
• B. 16, 8, 8
• C. 24, 24, 48
• D. 48, 24, 24

Hint:

To find resources needed for multiple NH$_3$, proportionally scale up from the 2NH$_3$ baseline.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

- The conversion of one molecule of nitrogen (N$_2$) to two ammonia (2NH$_3$) via nitrogenase requires:
  - 16 ATP
  - 8 electrons
  - 8 protons

- Therefore, for 6NH$_3$:
  - ATP required = \( \frac{16}{2} \times 6 = 48 \)
  - Electrons required = \( \frac{8}{2} \times 6 = 24 \)
  - Protons required = \( \frac{8}{2} \times 6 = 24 \)