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2,4-dinitrophenol is a chemical that is toxic to mitochondria - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 4 - 2006 - Paper 1
Question 4
2,4-dinitrophenol is a chemical that is toxic to mitochondria. When added to mitochondria this chemical allows electron transport to occur but prevents the phosphory... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:2,4-dinitrophenol is a chemical that is toxic to mitochondria - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 4 - 2006 - Paper 1
Step 1
a. If mitochondria are poisoned with 2,4-dinitrophenol by what process could a plant cell produce more ATP?
Answer
If mitochondria are poisoned with 2,4-dinitrophenol, plant cells could potentially produce more ATP through anaerobic respiration. This process does not rely on mitochondrial function, and thus it can help compensate for the impeded ATP production caused by the toxin.
Step 2
b. Where in the mitochondria does electron transport and ATP production occur?
Answer
Electron transport and ATP production occur in the inner membrane of the mitochondria, specifically across the inner mitochondrial membrane where the electron transport chain is located and ATP synthase functions.
Step 3
c. Give one reason why an agricultural company might want to fund research on the effects of this toxin on field crickets.
Answer
An agricultural company might want to fund research on the effects of this toxin on field crickets to evaluate its potential as a pesticide. Understanding the impact of 2,4-dinitrophenol could help determine its effectiveness in controlling cricket populations that affect crop yields.
Step 4
d. In terms of energy production, why did the temperature go up in trial 1 and not in the control?
Answer
The temperature increased in trial 1 with 2,4-dinitrophenol because this chemical uncouples oxidative phosphorylation. While electron transport occurs, ATP is not produced efficiently; instead, energy is released as heat, raising the temperature. In the control group, where no 2,4-dinitrophenol was present, normal ATP production processes were maintained, resulting in lower temperature changes.