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Ch. 5 - Microbial Metabolism
All textbooksTortora 14th EditionCh. 5 - Microbial MetabolismProblem 2.5a
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Chapter 5, Problem 2.5a

The best definition of ATP is that it is
a. a molecule stored for food use.
b. a molecule that supplies energy to do work.
c. a molecule stored for an energy reserve.
d. a molecule used as a source of phosphate.

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1
Understand that ATP stands for adenosine triphosphate, which is a key molecule in cellular energy transfer.
Recognize that ATP is often referred to as the 'energy currency' of the cell because it provides energy for various cellular processes.
Consider the role of ATP in cellular metabolism, where it releases energy when its phosphate bonds are broken.
Evaluate each option: (a) ATP is not primarily stored for food use; (b) ATP supplies energy to do work; (c) ATP is not stored as an energy reserve in the same way as fats or glycogen; (d) ATP can donate phosphate groups, but this is not its primary definition.
Conclude that the best definition of ATP is related to its role in supplying energy for cellular work.

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Key Concepts

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

Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)

ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, is a nucleotide that serves as the primary energy carrier in all living organisms. It consists of an adenosine molecule bonded to three phosphate groups. The high-energy bonds between these phosphate groups can be broken to release energy, which is then used for various cellular processes.
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Energy Transfer in Cells

Cells require energy to perform work, such as muscle contraction, active transport, and biosynthesis. ATP acts as a direct energy source, providing the necessary energy through hydrolysis, where one of its phosphate groups is removed, converting it to ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and releasing energy for cellular activities.
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Phosphate Groups and Energy Storage

Phosphate groups in ATP are crucial for energy storage and transfer. The energy stored in the high-energy phosphate bonds can be quickly mobilized when needed, making ATP an efficient energy currency. This allows cells to respond rapidly to energy demands, unlike other forms of energy storage that are slower to mobilize.
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