Electron transfer

Definition

Electron transfer is the movement of electrons from one molecule or atom to another. It plays a critical role in various biochemical processes, including cellular respiration and photosynthesis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Electron transfer is essential for the production of ATP in cellular respiration.
2. Molecules that donate electrons are known as reducing agents, while those that accept electrons are called oxidizing agents.
3. Electron transfer chains are a series of complexes that transfer electrons via redox reactions.
4. Photosynthesis involves electron transfer to convert light energy into chemical energy.
5. The efficiency of electron transfer can be affected by factors such as distance between molecules and the presence of catalysts.

Review Questions

• What role does electron transfer play in cellular respiration?
• Define reducing agent and oxidizing agent in the context of electron transfer.
• How does electron transfer contribute to the process of photosynthesis?

Related terms

ATP: Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a molecule that stores and transfers energy within cells.

Redox Reaction: A chemical reaction involving the transfer of electrons between two species, encompassing both oxidation and reduction processes.

Cellular Respiration: A set of metabolic reactions used by cells to harvest energy from nutrients, primarily through the production of ATP.