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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4:26 minutes

Problem 13

Textbook Question

Using abbreviations (not structures), write the reaction of flavin adenine dinucleotide that gives off energy (–∆G) .

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the chemical reaction involving flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD). FAD is a coenzyme that participates in redox reactions, typically being reduced to FADH₂ during energy-yielding processes.

Understand that the reaction giving off energy (negative ∆G) involves the oxidation of FADH₂ back to FAD. This process releases energy as electrons are transferred to the electron transport chain.

Write the reaction in abbreviated form:

{FADH}_{2} \to FAD + 2 H + 2 e -

. This represents the oxidation of FADH₂, releasing protons and electrons.

Recognize that the electrons released during this reaction are transferred to the electron transport chain, where they contribute to the generation of ATP, the energy currency of the cell.

Note that the negative ∆G indicates that this reaction is exergonic, meaning it releases energy that can be harnessed for cellular processes.

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Key Concepts

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

Flavin Adenine Dinucleotide (FAD)

FAD is a redox cofactor involved in various metabolic reactions, particularly in the electron transport chain. It exists in two forms: oxidized (FAD) and reduced (FADH2). The conversion between these forms is crucial for energy production in cellular respiration, as FADH2 can donate electrons to the electron transport chain, leading to ATP synthesis.

Gibbs Free Energy (∆G)

Gibbs Free Energy (∆G) is a thermodynamic quantity that indicates the spontaneity of a reaction. A negative ∆G value (―∆G) signifies that a reaction releases energy and can occur spontaneously. Understanding ∆G is essential for predicting whether a biochemical reaction, such as the reduction of FAD to FADH2, will proceed under physiological conditions.

Redox Reactions

Redox reactions involve the transfer of electrons between molecules, resulting in changes in oxidation states. In the context of FAD, it acts as an electron acceptor in oxidation reactions, becoming reduced to FADH2. These reactions are fundamental in metabolic pathways, as they facilitate energy release and storage, contributing to the overall energy balance in cells.

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