Using the principle of specific vectorial ligand conduction, we outline directly coupled protonmotive O loop and O cycle mechanisms of cytochrome oxidase action that are analogous to protonmotive Q loop and Q cycle mechanisms of QH2 dehydrogenase action. We discuss these directly coupled mechanisms in the light of available experimental knowledge, and suggest that they may stimulate useful new research initiatives designed to elucidate the osmochemistry of protonmotive oxygen reduction in cytochrome oxidase.