Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which molecule is primarily responsible for directly providing energy to cells in the human body?
A
DNA
B
Glucose
C
ATP
D
NADH
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that cells require energy to perform various functions, and this energy is often provided in a form that can be readily used by cellular processes.
Recognize that ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is a molecule that stores and transfers energy within cells. It is often referred to as the 'energy currency' of the cell.
Learn that ATP releases energy when its high-energy phosphate bonds are broken, specifically when it is converted to ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and an inorganic phosphate.
Compare ATP with other molecules like glucose and NADH. While glucose is a primary energy source, it must be metabolized to produce ATP. NADH is an electron carrier involved in energy production but does not directly provide energy like ATP.
Conclude that ATP is the molecule directly responsible for providing energy to cells, as it can be quickly used to power cellular activities.