4.2: ATP

Question 1

How does ATP store energy?

Answer 1

The molecule has three phosphates, the bonds between the phosphate groups are unstable so they have a low activation energy. They are easily broken, which releases a considerable amount of energy.

Question 2

Describe the three stages of energy flow in living things

Answer 2

1. Light energy from the sun is converted into chemical energy by plants during photosynthesis.
2. The chemical energy is converted into ATP during cellular respiration.
3. ATP is used by cells

Question 3

Uses of ATP

Answer 3

• Metabolic processes such as digestion
• Muscle contractions
• Active Transport
• Division and repair of cells

Question 4

Why is ATP effective at it’s role

Answer 4

• It’s easily hydrolysed in a one step reaction
• Stores a small amount of energy
• Cannot pass out of the cell
• Has a phosphate that can be transferred onto another molecule

Question 5

Describe the synthesis of ATP

Answer 5

Energy is used to add an inorganic phosphate to ADP to form ATP and water. This is a condensation reaction.