ATP synthase is an enzyme that synthesizes adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and inorganic phosphate during cellular respiration. It is located in the inner mitochondrial membrane in eukaryotes and the plasma membrane of prokaryotes.
Electron Transport Chain: A series of protein complexes that transfer electrons and pump protons to create a gradient.
Chemiosmosis: The process by which a proton gradient drives the synthesis of ATP via ATP synthase.
Proton Motive Force: The force created by the transmembrane proton gradient that drives protons through ATP synthase.