Cyanide is known to inhibit the flow of electrons along the electron transport chain. How would exposure to cyanide affect the pH of the outer mitochondrial compartment (the inter - membrane space)

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Biology

Cowan

9 May, 05:01

Cyanide is known to inhibit the flow of electrons along the electron transport chain. How would exposure to cyanide affect the pH of the outer mitochondrial compartment (the inter - membrane space)

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Answers (1)

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Yair Fowler · Answer 1

The pH will be very High.

Explanation:

The electron chain is responsible for generating the Proton Motive Force, which pumps H + (protons) into the inter membrane space, to lower the pH. Therefore if Cyanide inhibits the ETC, the PMF will be stopped.

Hydrogen ions will not be pumped into the inter-membrane space, to lower the pH of the medium for increase acidity. Hence, electrochemical gradient from the diffusion of H + back into the matrix will not be generated,

Energy for ATP synthesis by ATPase Enzyme will not be produced. Therefore ATP synthesis will stop.