Multiple Choice
Which of the following factors affects the cell potential (\(E_{cell}\)) in an electrochemical reaction?
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1. Introduction to Biochemistry
Gibbs Free Energy
Multiple Choice
In the context of Gibbs free energy and cellular metabolism, what primary function does ATP serve in living organisms?
A
It functions mainly as a structural component of cellular membranes, forming the lipid bilayer.
B
It catalyzes metabolic reactions by lowering activation energy in the same way protein enzymes do.
C
It serves as the primary long-term energy storage molecule, replacing triacylglycerols in most tissues.
D
It acts as the cell’s main energy currency by coupling exergonic ATP hydrolysis to drive endergonic processes.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) in cellular metabolism as a molecule that stores and transfers energy within cells.
Recognize that ATP hydrolysis (breaking down ATP into ADP and inorganic phosphate) releases energy, which can be used to power various cellular processes.
Identify that ATP does not primarily serve as a structural component of membranes or as a catalyst like enzymes, nor is it the main long-term energy storage molecule (which is typically fats like triacylglycerols).
Focus on the concept of energy coupling: ATP hydrolysis is an exergonic reaction (releases energy) that is used to drive endergonic reactions (require energy) in the cell, making ATP the cell’s main energy currency.
Summarize that ATP’s primary function is to act as an energy intermediary, linking energy-releasing and energy-consuming reactions to maintain cellular function and metabolism.
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