Chapter 8, Problem 12STP

Summary Introduction

To relate:

The bonds between phosphate groups in ATP to the release of energy when a molecule of ATP is changed to ADP

Introduction:

Catabolic pathways release energy by breaking down larger molecules into smaller molecules. ATP is the most abundant energy molecule that releases energy when the bonds between phosphate groups break forming adenosine diphosphate or ADP.Itis also called energy currency of a cell.

Answer to Problem 12STP

An ATP molecule is made of an adenine base, a ribose sugar and three phosphate groups. The breakdown of ATP releases energy for powering cellular activities in organisms. Whenthe bond between second and third phosphate groups breaks, a lot of energy is released. It results in the formation of adenosine diphosphate or ADP and a free phosphate group.

Explanation of Solution

ATP is a multipurpose storehouse of chemical energy that can be used by cells in a variety of reactions. Thebond between second and third phosphate groups in ATP molecule is highly energetic. It undergoes hydrolysis and releases energy when the bond between second and third phosphate groups breaks forming adenosine diphosphate or ADP and a free phosphate group. A lot of energy is released which can be used by the cells to perform various activities.