How Cells Obtain Energy

Flashcards on cellular energy concepts, including definitions of key terms and principles related to energy transformation and cellular respiration.

Energy

The capacity to do work.

Potential Energy

Stored energy due to location or structure.

Kinetic Energy

Energy of objects in motion.

Heat

Energy transferred from one system to another that isn’t work (unusable).

1st Law of Thermodynamics

The total amount of energy in the universe is constant and conserved; energy cannot be created or destroyed, only converted.

2nd Law of Thermodynamics

Energy conversion is not 100% efficient; energy is lost as heat.

Cellular Respiration

Breakdown of chemical bonds in food molecules to release stored energy; occurs in every cell.

ATP

Primary energy currency of the cell that powers the majority of energy-requiring cellular reactions.

Oxidation Reactions

Reactions that involve loss of electrons, resulting in the release of energy.

Reduction Reactions

Reactions that involve gain of electrons, requiring energy.

Aerobic Cellular Respiration Equation

Chemical equation for cellular respiration: C6H12O6 + O2 → CO2 + H2O + ATP.

Photosynthesis

Process that drives cellular work by converting sunlight energy into chemical energy.

ATP Cycle

The process through which ATP is recycled for cellular work.