Given below are two statements. One is labeled Assertion(A) and the other is labeled reason (R) Assertion (A) : ATP synthase catalyzes the formation of ATP.

Reason (R) : The energy released by the breakdown of the proton gradient is captured by the ATP synthase to catalyze the synthesis of ATP.

Assertion is true. ATP synthase is an essential enzyme complex found in both cellular respiration and photosynthesis. It is responsible for the synthesis of ATP, which is the primary energy carrier molecule in cells.

Reason is also true. The breakdown of this proton gradient releases energy, and this energy is harnessed by ATP synthase. ATP synthase acts as a molecular motor, using the energy from the protons flowing down their concentration gradient to catalyze the addition of inorganic phosphate (Pi) to adenosine diphosphate (ADP), forming adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The process is called chemiosmotic coupling, and it directly couples the synthesis of ATP with the flow of protons across the membrane.

Both A and R are correct and A is correct explanation of R.