Functions of Human Life

ATP, Metabolism, Responsiveness

Anabolism

Process whereby smaller, simpler molecules are combined into larger more complex substances; uses energy

Catabolism

Process by which larger, more complex substances are broken down into smaller, simpler molecules; releases energy

ATP (full term)

Adenosine Triphosphate

What is the function of ATP?

Every cell in the body makes use of the chemical compound ATP to store and release energy

How the body uses ATP

To store and release energy

Responsiveness

The ability of an organism to adjust to changes in its internal and external environments

Movement

Action at joints; motion of individual cells and organs

Development

All changes the body goes through in life, including differentiation, growth, and repair

Differentiation

Unspecialized cells become specialized in structure and function to perform a certain task

Growth

Increase in body size by increasing existing number of cells, non-cellular material around cells, and, within narrow limits, increasing size of existing cells

Reproduction

Formation of a new organism from parent organisms

Process of ATP

1. Cells store energy in the synthesis (anabolism) of ATP

2. Cell moves ATP molecules to the location where energy is needed to fuel cellular activities

3. ATP is broken down (catabolism) and a controlled amount of energy is released, which is used by the cell to perform a particular job