Here's why:
* Electron Transport Chain: The final stage of aerobic respiration is the electron transport chain. This is where electrons, carried by NADH and FADH2, are passed along a series of protein complexes embedded in the mitochondrial membrane.
* Oxygen as the Final Electron Acceptor: Oxygen (O2) acts as the final electron acceptor in this chain. It is highly electronegative, meaning it strongly attracts electrons.
* Water Formation: As electrons are passed to oxygen, it combines with protons (H+) from the surrounding environment to form water (H2O).
This process is essential for the production of ATP, the energy currency of cells, through oxidative phosphorylation.
