Which structure serves as the primary site for ATP synthesis in bacterial cells?

• A. Mitochondria
• B. Plasma membrane
• C. Chloroplasts
• D. Nucleus

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that ATP synthesis is the process by which cells generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main energy currency of the cell.
2. Recall that mitochondria are the primary site of ATP synthesis in eukaryotic cells, but bacteria are prokaryotes and lack membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria.
3. Recognize that in bacterial cells, the plasma membrane performs many functions that organelles do in eukaryotes, including housing the proteins and enzymes necessary for ATP synthesis.
4. Know that the electron transport chain and ATP synthase complexes are embedded in the bacterial plasma membrane, allowing the generation of ATP through chemiosmosis.
5. Conclude that the plasma membrane is the primary site for ATP synthesis in bacterial cells, unlike mitochondria or chloroplasts which are found in eukaryotic cells.