Chemiosmotic Theory

The Chemiosmotic Theory explains how cells generate energy. Inside mitochondria, molecules called electrons are transferred through a chain, releasing energy. This energy pumps protons (positively charged particles) across a membrane, creating a higher concentration of protons on one side. This difference is like a dam holding back water. When protons flow back through a special enzyme called ATP synthase, the energy from their movement is used to produce ATP, the cell’s main energy currency. This process efficiently converts energy from nutrients into usable cellular power through a proton gradient and enzyme activity.