The electron transport chain is, in essence, a series of redox reactions that conclude cellular respiration. during these redox reactions, hints the electron transport chain is, in essence, a series of redox reactions that conclude cellular respiration. during these redox reactions, all the carriers pump h+ across the mitochondrial membrane, forming a gradient that is used to drive atp synthesis nadh is reduced as it donates electrons to the first complex involved in the electron transport chain electrons are transferred through a series of electron acceptors embedded within the inner mitochondrial membrane atp synthase allows hydrogen ions to move across the mitochondrial membrane