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Multiple Choice
Why is ATP useful to cells?
A
It functions as a catalyst in biochemical reactions.
B
It serves as a genetic material for inheritance.
C
It stores and releases energy for cellular processes.
D
It acts as a structural component of cell membranes.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) in cellular processes. ATP is a molecule that carries energy within cells.
Recognize that ATP is not a catalyst. Catalysts are substances that speed up chemical reactions without being consumed, such as enzymes, but ATP is consumed when it releases energy.
Acknowledge that ATP is not genetic material. Genetic material is DNA or RNA, which carry genetic information, whereas ATP is involved in energy transfer.
Identify that ATP is not a structural component of cell membranes. Cell membranes are primarily composed of lipids and proteins.
Conclude that ATP is useful to cells because it stores and releases energy for cellular processes. This energy is used for various functions such as muscle contraction, nerve impulse propagation, and chemical synthesis.