3.2-3.4

ATP

Adenosine Triphosphate, known as the energy currency of the cell, supplies energy for cellular functions.

Mechanical (muscle contractions), transport (active transport) and chemical (protein synthesis)

Cellular processes ATP facilitates

ATP is converted to ADP and inorganic phosphate, releasing energy (ΔG=-30.5 kJ/mol).

ATP Hydrolysis

Energy Coupling

A process where energy released from ATP hydrolysis is used to drive endergonic reactions.

The continuous regeneration of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate, requiring energy input from food.

ATP Cycle

The energy required to initiate a chemical reaction.

Activation Energy (Ea)

A biological catalyst that speeds up reactions by lowering activation energy without affecting overall ∆G.

Enzyme

A mechanism of enzyme action where substrates are brought together and bonds are weakened by enzyme interaction.

Induced-Fit Model

Oxidation-Reduction reactions central to cellular respiration involving electron transfer (facilitates controlled energy release and storage).

Redox Reactions

An electron carrier that accepts electrons and becomes NADH, temporarily storing energy for ATP synthesis.

NAD+

The gradual breakdown of glucose in cells to release energy efficiently, in contrast to rapid combustion.

Controlled Oxidation