oxidative phosphorylation

Oxidative phosphorylation is a process in our cells that produces energy. It occurs in the mitochondria, often called the cell’s power plants. During this process, molecules from food are broken down, releasing electrons. These electrons move through a series of proteins, creating a flow that drives the production of a molecule called ATP, which stores energy our cells use for various functions. Oxygen is essential here because it accepts electrons at the end of the chain, allowing the process to continue efficiently. In essence, oxidative phosphorylation converts food into usable cellular energy with oxygen’s help.