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C1.2.14 (HL)—Proton gradient generation

Electron transport releases energy that pumps protons from the mitochondrial matrix to the intermembrane space, supporting usable cellular work and measurable biological activity.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
C1.2.14
Level
HL

Exam analysis

Chance of appearing1%of analysed past papers
Latest appearanceNovember 2021
Most common paperPaper1
Typical marks1

Recent exam appearances

November 2021Paper1 ["HL"] · TZ030[ 1 ]C1.2.14 (HL)—Proton gradient generation
Practice this objective

Coverage 2021–2021 · Updated 15 Jul 2026

Concept essentials

  • Protons are pumped from the matrix to the intermembrane space.
  • The inner mitochondrial membrane maintains the proton gradient.
  • Electron transport provides the energy for proton pumping.
  • The gradient stores energy for ATP synthesis.
ConceptIB Biology HL