What is the electron transport chain's primary function?

The primary function of the electron transport chain is to shuttle high-energy electrons for ATP production. This process occurs in the inner mitochondrial membrane where electrons, derived from NADH and FADH2 generated during earlier stages of cellular respiration (glycolysis and the Krebs cycle), are transferred through a series of proteins and other molecules. As electrons move through these complexes, they release energy that is used to pump protons (H+ ions) across the mitochondrial membrane, creating an electrochemical gradient.

This proton gradient is then utilized by ATP synthase to produce ATP as protons flow back into the mitochondrial matrix. The movement of electrons through the electron transport chain is crucial for efficient ATP generation, which is the energy currency of the cell. This makes option C the correct answer as it directly references the central role of the electron transport chain in energy production within the cell.

The other options relate to different cellular processes. Synthesis of proteins is primarily managed by ribosomes and the processes of transcription and translation. Storing genetic information is a function of DNA within the nucleus. Facilitating digestion of food involves the digestive system rather than the mechanisms of cellular respiration and energy production. Each function is critical to cellular activities but does not pertain to the specific role of