Chapter 24, Problem 99A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The statement “glucose is an energy-rich molecule, but carbon dioxide is an energy-poor molecule” is to be explained.

Concept introduction: The glucose molecule has six carbons and is a carbohydrate. One glucose molecule can completely oxidize into carbon dioxide and water, releasing significant energy.

Answer to Problem 99A

Glucose is an energy-rich molecule because it releases energy that may be stored as ATP, a high-energy substance found in all living organisms. Carbon dioxide is an energy-poor molecule because its formation leads to the highest release of energy, and it cannot be transformed into usable forms of energy.

Explanation of Solution

Glucose is an energy-rich molecule because it can be transformed into energy that can be used during cellular oxidation. This spontaneous oxidation process yields energy that may be stored as ATP (adenosine triphosphate). In all living organisms, ATP is a high-energy molecule.

The opposite of glucose, carbon dioxide is an energy-poor molecule. As a byproduct of the combustion and oxidation of hydrocarbons and glucose, carbon dioxide is a molecule with low energy content. Carbon dioxide cannot be transformed into usable forms of energy, as its creation corresponds to the highest release of energy.

Conclusion

Glucose is an energy-rich molecule because it releases energy that may be stored as ATP, a high-energy substance found in all living organisms. Carbon dioxide is an energy-poor molecule because its formation leads to the highest release of energy, and it cannot be transformed into usable forms of energy.