Where is the electron transport chain located in eukaryotic cells?

• A. The outer mitochondrial membrane
• B. The inner mitochondrial membrane
• C. The cytoplasm
• D. The nucleus

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of the electron transport chain (ETC): The ETC is a series of protein complexes and molecules that transfer electrons to generate a proton gradient, which is used to produce ATP during cellular respiration.
2. Identify the location of cellular respiration in eukaryotic cells: Cellular respiration primarily occurs in the mitochondria, which is the powerhouse of the cell.
3. Learn the structure of the mitochondrion: The mitochondrion has two membranes—an outer membrane and an inner membrane. The inner membrane is highly folded into structures called cristae, which increase the surface area for reactions.
4. Determine the specific location of the ETC: The protein complexes and molecules involved in the ETC are embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane. This location is crucial because it allows the establishment of a proton gradient across the membrane.
5. Review why other options are incorrect: The outer mitochondrial membrane is not involved in the ETC, the cytoplasm is where glycolysis occurs, and the nucleus is involved in genetic material storage and transcription, not cellular respiration.