Welcome to the powerhouse of the cell! Learn how your mitochondria convert nutrients into ATP energy.
NADH and FADH₂ from glycolysis and citric acid cycle donate electrons. Oxygen acts as the final electron acceptor.
Electrons flow through protein complexes, pumping protons across the membrane to create a gradient.
ATP is produced as protons flow back through ATP synthase. Water forms when oxygen accepts electrons.
Produces ~95% of cellular ATP, powers all energy-requiring processes in your body.
Each NADH yields ~2.5 ATP, each FADH₂ yields ~1.5 ATP through oxidative phosphorylation.
Temperature and oxygen levels affect the rate. Use the controls below to experiment!