Problem Set 5

Using values from Table 14-4, calculate the standard state Gibb’s Free Energy (ΔG°’) for the oxidation/reduction reaction that results when electrons exchange between FADH2 and O2. How many moles of ATP could theoretically be produced per mole of of this reaction? How does this number compare to the amount of ATP that is actually produced?
Draw a schematic (cartoon) diagram of the electron transport chain and oxidative phosphorylation functioning in the mitochondrial inner membrane. Label each of the following in your figure: citric acid cycle, mitochondrial matrix, mitochondrial intermembrane space, Complexes I-IV, coenzyme Q (ubiquinone), cytochrome c, ATP synthase. Draw arrows and add labels to show the reduction and reoxidation of NAD , the production of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate, and the transport of H back and forth across the membrane.
Explain in your own words the transport of four protons out of the mitochondrial matrix via the Q cycle.
Would you expect an isolated F1 complex to display ATPase activity or ATP synthase activity? Explain your answer. What causes ATP synthase to function in only one direction within the context of the inner mitochondrial membrane?