Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Metabolic pathways in cells are typically far from equilibrium. Which of the following processes tend(s) to keep these pathways away from equilibrium?
A
The continuous removal of the products of a pathway to be used in other reactions
B
An input of free energy from outside the pathway
C
An input of heat from the environment
D
The first, second, and third listed responses are correct.
E
The first and second listed responses are correct.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of metabolic pathways: Metabolic pathways are series of chemical reactions occurring within a cell. They are crucial for maintaining the cell's functions and are typically regulated to be far from equilibrium to ensure continuous operation.
Consider the role of product removal: The continuous removal of products from a pathway prevents the accumulation of these products, which would otherwise lead to equilibrium. This removal allows the pathway to proceed in a forward direction, facilitating ongoing reactions.
Evaluate the input of free energy: Metabolic pathways often require an input of free energy to drive reactions forward. This energy input can come from sources like ATP, which helps maintain the pathway's directionality and prevents it from reaching equilibrium.
Analyze the role of heat input: While heat can influence reaction rates, it does not directly contribute to keeping pathways away from equilibrium in the same way that product removal and free energy input do. Heat generally affects the kinetics rather than the thermodynamics of the pathway.
Conclude with the correct processes: Based on the analysis, the continuous removal of products and the input of free energy are the key processes that keep metabolic pathways away from equilibrium, aligning with the correct answer provided.