Chapter 12: Respiration in Plants

Ans: The process by which ATP is formed as a result of the transfer of electrons from NADH or ${\text{FAD}}{{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}}$ to ${{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}}$ by a series of electron carriers is known as oxidative phosphorylation. This process, which occurs in mitochondria, is the primary source of APT in aerobic organisms.

For example, when glucose is completely oxidized to ${\text{C}}{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}}$ and ${{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}}{\text{O}}$, oxidative phosphorylation generates 26 of the 30 molecules of ATP.

Ans: The following are the benefits of stepwise release of energy in respiration: -

1. There is a gradual release of chemical bond energy, which is easily trapped in the formation of ATP molecules.

2. The temperature of the cell is not allowed to rise.

3. Energy waste is reduced.

4. A variety of intermediates can be used in the production of a variety of biochemicals.

5. Different substances can undergo respiratory catabolism via their metabolic intermediates.

6. Each step of respiration is regulated by its enzyme. Specific compounds can either increase or decrease the activity of various enzymes. This aids in controlling the rate of respiration as well as the amount of energy released.