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Multiple Choice
Which molecule is often called the cell’s energy currency?
A
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH)
B
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)
C
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)
D
Glucose
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of 'energy currency' in cells: This term refers to a molecule that stores and transfers energy within the cell to power various biological processes.
Learn about Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP): ATP is a nucleotide composed of adenine, ribose (a sugar), and three phosphate groups. It is the primary molecule used by cells to store and transfer energy.
Explore how ATP works: When the bond between the second and third phosphate group in ATP is broken (via hydrolysis), energy is released. This energy is used to drive cellular processes such as muscle contraction, active transport, and chemical reactions.
Compare ATP to other molecules: While NADH and glucose are involved in energy metabolism, they are not directly used as the 'currency' for immediate energy transfer. DNA, on the other hand, is involved in genetic information storage and is not related to energy transfer.
Conclude why ATP is the correct answer: ATP is universally recognized as the cell's energy currency because it directly provides energy for cellular activities in a readily usable form.