Synthesis of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation is a seriously endergonic reaction. What is the immediate reservoir of stored energy that drives this process? a. the electron transport chain
b. oxygen
c. proton gradient or energized membrane
d. NADH+ H and FADH2
e. glucose

The correct answer is - option C. proton gradient or energized membrane.

Explanation:

The transport chain reaction or system produces the ATP which is caused by the movement of the proton through the internal membrane from the matrix to intermembrane space by the protein complex.

This makes a concentration gradient of protons that moves through the membrane of mitochondria which is utilized by the enzyme known as ATP synthase to produces ATP molecules by oxidative phosphorylation.