What is the significance of the H+ gradient?

(Metabolism question)

Question

What is the significance of the H+ gradient?

(Metabolism question)

ookawaiioo · Answer

What are your thoughts?

addonexus · Answer

well, since NADH and FADH2 are the carriers through the ETC they create an H+ gradient buildup. This flows through the ATP synthase, so I'm lead to believe it has something to do with the creation of ATP, perhaps being a source of energy.

ookawaiioo · Answer

Good job

addonexus · Answer

So it is the source of energy in ATP production in the ETC?

ookawaiioo · Answer

Its the driving force to make energy for the cell

addonexus · Answer

Ok, thank you.

anonymous · Answer

as it turns out, the H+ gradient generates more ATP than the whole substrate-level phosphorylation of glycolysis altogether. and because of the tight regulation of ATP synthase activity, it's besically on-demand energy generation. it's just a brilliant system.