Table of contents

1. Matter and Measurements4h 31m
2. Atoms and the Periodic Table5h 23m
3. Ionic Compounds2h 18m
4. Molecular Compounds2h 18m
5. Classification & Balancing of Chemical Reactions3h 17m
6. Chemical Reactions & Quantities2h 27m
7. Energy, Rate and Equilibrium3h 46m
8. Gases, Liquids and Solids3h 25m
9. Solutions4h 10m
10. Acids and Bases3h 29m
11. Nuclear Chemistry56m
BONUS: Lab Techniques and Procedures1h 38m
BONUS: Mathematical Operations and Functions47m
12. Introduction to Organic Chemistry1h 34m
13. Alkenes, Alkynes, and Aromatic Compounds2h 12m
14. Compounds with Oxygen or Sulfur1h 6m
15. Aldehydes and Ketones1h 1m
16. Carboxylic Acids and Their Derivatives1h 11m
17. Amines39m
18. Amino Acids and Proteins1h 51m
19. Enzymes1h 37m
20. Carbohydrates1h 41m
21. The Generation of Biochemical Energy2h 8m
22. Carbohydrate Metabolism2h 22m
23. Lipids2h 26m
24. Lipid Metabolism1h 45m
25. Protein and Amino Acid Metabolism1h 37m
26. Nucleic Acids and Protein Synthesis2h 54m

21. The Generation of Biochemical Energy

Energy Production In Biochemical Pathways

GOB Chemistry

21. The Generation of Biochemical Energy

Energy Production In Biochemical Pathways

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3:12 minutes

Problem 76

Textbook Question

Why must the breakdown of molecules for energy in the body occur in several steps, rather than in one step?

Verified step by step guidance

The breakdown of molecules for energy in the body occurs in several steps to ensure that the energy released is controlled and manageable. If all the energy were released in one step, it could result in a sudden release of heat, which would be inefficient and potentially harmful to the body.

In a multi-step process, the energy is released gradually, allowing the body to capture and store it in usable forms, such as ATP (adenosine triphosphate). This ensures that the energy can be utilized efficiently for cellular processes.

Each step in the breakdown process is catalyzed by specific enzymes, which help regulate the reaction rates and ensure that the reactions occur under physiological conditions.

The multi-step process also allows for intermediate molecules to be formed, which can be used in other metabolic pathways. This increases the versatility and efficiency of the body's metabolism.

Finally, breaking down molecules in several steps allows the body to maintain homeostasis by preventing large fluctuations in energy levels and ensuring that the energy needs of cells are met consistently over time.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Metabolic Pathways

Metabolic pathways are sequences of chemical reactions occurring within a cell, where the product of one reaction serves as the substrate for the next. These pathways allow for the gradual breakdown of molecules, enabling the cell to efficiently extract energy while controlling the release of energy in manageable amounts.

Energy Transfer and ATP

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the primary energy carrier in cells. The stepwise breakdown of molecules, such as glucose, allows for the controlled release of energy, which is captured in the form of ATP. This prevents energy loss and ensures that energy is available for cellular processes when needed.

Regulation and Control

The breakdown of molecules in multiple steps allows for greater regulation and control of metabolic processes. Enzymes involved in each step can be regulated, ensuring that the cell can respond to changes in energy demand and substrate availability, thus maintaining homeostasis and preventing metabolic imbalances.

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