1.6 ATP

Question 1

Describe the structure of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)

Answer 1

Nucleotide derivative and consists of ribose, adenine and 3 phosphate groups

Question 2

How is energy released from ATP?

Answer 2

Energy is released when ATP is hydrolysed to form ADP and a phosphate molecule. This process is catalysed by ATP hydrolase
The energy comes from the bonds between the phosphate molecules. These bonds are very unstable and thus have a low activation energy. The breaking of these is quick and releases a considerable amount of energy

Question 3

What can the products of ATP hydrolase be used for?

Answer 3

The inorganic phosphate (Pi) can be used to phosphorlyate other compounds, as a result making them more reactive

Question 4

Describe the role of ATP synthase

Answer 4

Condensation of ADP and inorganic phosphate catalysed by ATP synthase produces ATP during photosynthesis and respiration

Question 5

Properties of ATP

Answer 5

• ATP is an immediate source of energy and is more desirable to use than glucose as ATP can be broken down in a single step to release a manageable quantity of energy
• ATP isn’t stored in large quantities as it can be easily reformed from ADP in seconds
• ATP is used in a variety of different ways, these include, metabolic processes, movement, active transport, secretion and activation of molecules