It's important to be precise with our terminology here. While "H ions" is a common term, in the context of cell respiration, we're really talking about protons (H+).

Here's how electrons and protons are used in cell respiration:

1. Electron Transport Chain:

* Electrons: During the electron transport chain (ETC), electrons are passed from molecule to molecule, releasing energy along the way. This energy is used to pump protons (H+) across the inner mitochondrial membrane, creating a proton gradient.

* Protons: This gradient is the driving force behind ATP synthesis. The protons flow back across the membrane through ATP synthase, which uses the energy to generate ATP (the cell's energy currency).

2. Glycolysis and Krebs Cycle:

* Electrons: During glycolysis and the Krebs cycle, electrons are extracted from glucose and other fuel molecules. These electrons are carried by NADH and FADH2, which act as electron carriers.

* Protons: While protons are not directly involved in these stages, the oxidation reactions that generate NADH and FADH2 do release protons as byproducts.

In summary:

* Electrons: are the primary energy carriers in the electron transport chain, powering the proton gradient.

* Protons (H+): are pumped across the membrane to create a gradient, which drives ATP synthesis.

Let me know if you'd like more detail about any of these processes!