ATP

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CLPB-H_f_k

What is the structure of ATP

ATP contains the base adenine, bonded to the pentose sugar ribose, this part of the molecule is called adenosine.

On other side of ribose there is 3 phosphate groups, this means ATP is a nucleotide.

Key point about ATP

It only takes a small amount of energy to break the covalent bond, holding the last phosphate group in place

When the bond is broken , a great deal of energy is released, the energy can then be used by processes in the cell.

Breaking bond requires water, this is example of hydrolysis reaction

Whats the hydrolysis reaction of ATP

The reaction is catalysed by enzyme ATPase, also called ATP hydrolase.

This reaction produces ADP (Adenosine Diphosphate)

Also releases the phosphate group

Why is ATP not a long term energy store

It is an immediate energy source, transferring energy from the sites of respiration, to the parts of the cell which require energy.