How do proton pumps contribute to ATP synthesis in the electron transport chain?

• A. Proton pumps use glucose to synthesize ATP.
• B. Proton pumps block the synthesis of ATP by inhibiting ATP synthase.
• C. Proton pumps create an electrochemical gradient that drives ATP synthase to produce ATP.
• D. Proton pumps directly convert ADP to ATP without any gradient.

Answer: (C)