Cellular Respiration: The Electron Transport Chain Virtual Lab

This short, targeted simulation is adapted from the full-length “Cellular Respiration” simulation.

What is the electron transport chain and how is it linked to the Krebs cycle? In this simulation, you will cover the final stage in aerobic respiration, the electron transport chain. After the Krebs cycle, you won't have to travel far, as you will be shrunken down and squashed inside a mitochondrion. Here, we will make an abstract concept become a mechanism which can be visualised through a colourful and engaging animation.

Evaluate the Electron Transport Chain

Firstly, you will be transported straight from the high-tech laboratory to right inside a mitochondrion using our cutting-edge shrink rays and teleportation machine! Here, you will learn about the stages that take place in the electron transport chain by getting up close and personal with the transmembrane proteins. You will see how the products of the Krebs cycle get the motor running and the reactions which take place at each stage, along with verbal explanations. You will have the ability to visualise the mechanics of the ETC - something even real-life laboratories cannot do!

Review your Knowledge

After a thorough explanation of the ETC you will be prompted with some engaging quiz questions to reinforce your knowledge to further your learning of cellular respiration. To accompany the quiz questions there are relevant theory pages and informative diagrams to aid your learning.

Help athletes perform

After exploring the final stage of aerobic respiration you will be ready to pass on your knowledge to the basketball players, so they can improve their diet and training regime to remain energized.