What is the Function of the Electron Transport Chain?
The primary function of the ETC is to transfer electrons from electron donors like NADH and FADH2 to oxygen, the final electron acceptor. This process generates a proton gradient across the mitochondrial membrane, which drives the production of ATP through oxidative phosphorylation. This ATP is essential for numerous cellular functions, including muscle contraction, nerve impulse propagation, and biochemical synthesis.
