Learn Glossary biochemistry

Chemiosmotic theory

Theory that most ATP synthesis occurs as protons move down an electrochemical gradient, with the energy used to phosphorylate ADP.

Mitchell's framework explaining oxidative phosphorylation: the electron transport chain pumps protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane, generating a proton-motive force that drives ATP synthase to phosphorylate ADP to ATP.

How one textbook covers it

  • Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism, 8th ed. (Gropper)Glossary

    Mitchell's framework explaining oxidative phosphorylation: the electron transport chain pumps protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane, generating a proton-motive force that drives ATP synthase to phosphorylate ADP to ATP.

Related terms

Electron transport chain, Mitochondria, Oxidative phosphorylation