_______ is a process found in both photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

The prompt asks for a term that is a process found in both photosynthesis and cellular respiration. In this case, the provided correct answer is Chemiosmosis, so we’ll explain why that fits and what it means in each context.

First, consider chemiosmosis as a mechanism: it describes the movement of protons (H+) across a membrane down their electrochemical gradient, which is coupled to the synthesis of ATP via ATP synthase. This core idea underpins energy production in both major cellular processes.

In photosynthesis, chemiosmosis occurs during the light-dependent reactions in the thylakoid membrane. Proton pumps create a proton gradient by transferring protons into the thylakoid lumen, and ATP synthase uses this gradient to convert ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi) into ATP. This ATP then powers the Calvin cycle in the stroma.

In cellular respiration, chemiosmosis happens during oxidative phosphorylation in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Electrons are transferred through the electron transport chain, pumping protons to generate a gradient across the membrane. ATP synthase then uses this gradient to synthesize ATP from ADP and Pi, providing the energy currency for the cell’s processes.

A common misconception might be to think of ATP production as a direct substrate-level phosphorylation event exclusive to one pathway. However, chemiosmosis emphasizes the shared strategy of energy coupling via a proton motive force in both processes, even though the details differ (light-driven electron flow in photosynthesis vs. oxidation of reduced fuels in respiration).

If there were multiple options, we would assess each by asking: does this process occur in chloroplasts or mitochondria or both? Is it tied to a membrane proton gradient and ATP synthesis? Is it present in the other pathway as a mechanism rather than a separate enzyme or cycle? Keeping these criteria in mind helps distinguish chemiosmosis from other processes that might be unique to one pathway, such as photolysis of water or the specific steps of glycolysis.

APBIO141-031 with labs S09 - CollegeBoard* AP Exam Prep: Multiple Choice

_______ is a process found in both photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

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