Which one of the following is the site of oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria?

Explanation

The site of oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria is the inner mitochondrial membrane. While the inner mitochondrial membrane is the primary site of oxidative phosphorylation, it is essential to mention that the specific structures within the inner membrane called cristae play a crucial role in this process. Cristae are the infoldings or protrusions of the inner mitochondrial membrane, and they significantly increase the surface area available for the various proteins involved in oxidative phosphorylation. Within the inner mitochondrial membrane, there is a series of protein complexes collectively known as the electron transport chain (ETC). This is where the transfer of electrons takes place, and the energy released during this process is used to pump protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane, creating a proton gradient. The enzyme ATP synthase, also located in the inner mitochondrial membrane, utilizes the energy from the proton gradient to synthesize ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate. This entire process of electron transport and ATP synthesis is referred to as oxidative phosphorylation.