Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart2h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

3. Energy & Cell Processes

ATP

Anatomy & Physiology

3. Energy & Cell Processes

ATP

Previous problemNext problem

Struggling with Anatomy & Physiology?

Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video

Multiple Choice

Much of the suitability of ATP as an energy intermediary is related to the instability of the bonds between the phosphate groups. These bonds are unstable because __________.

the valence electrons in the phosphorus atom have less energy on average than those of other atoms

they are hydrogen bonds, which are only about 10% as strong as covalent bonds

the phosphate groups are polar and are attracted to the water in the cell's interior

the bonds between the phosphate groups are unusually strong and breaking them releases free energy

the negatively charged phosphate groups vigorously repel one another and the terminal phosphate group is more stable in water than it is in ATP

Previous problemNext problem

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the structure of ATP: ATP (adenosine triphosphate) consists of an adenosine molecule attached to three phosphate groups. The bonds between these phosphate groups are known as phosphoanhydride bonds.

Recognize the nature of the phosphate groups: Each phosphate group carries a negative charge. When multiple negatively charged groups are in close proximity, they repel each other due to electrostatic forces.

Consider the stability of the terminal phosphate group: The terminal phosphate group, when released from ATP, is more stable in water. This is because the surrounding water molecules can stabilize the negative charge through solvation.

Analyze the energy release upon bond breaking: Breaking the bond between the terminal phosphate group and the rest of the ATP molecule releases energy. This is because the products (ADP and inorganic phosphate) are more stable than the reactants (ATP).

Conclude why ATP is suitable as an energy intermediary: The instability of the bonds due to repulsion between negatively charged phosphate groups makes ATP an effective energy carrier, as it can readily release energy when needed.