ATP Flashcards
1
Q
Describe the structure of adenosine triphosphate
A
- Adenine
- Ribose
- 3 phosphate groups
2
Q
How does DNA polymerase work?
A
- Catalyses condensation reactions between the deoxyribose sugar and phosphate groups of adjacent nucleotides
- Breaks off the two extra phosphates and uses energy released to create phosphodiester bonds
3
Q
In what direction does DNA polymerase build new strands
A
The 5’ to 3’ direction
4
Q
How does the DNA polymerase enzyme synthesise leading strands continuously?
A
- As DNA is ‘unzipped’ from the 3’ towards the 5’ end, DNA polymerase will attach to the 3’ end of the original strand and move towards the replication fork
- This means the DNA polymerase enzyme can synthesise the leading strand continuously
5
Q
What is the importance of retaining 1 original DNA strand?
A
It ensures that there is genetic continuity between generations of cells so that new cells produced during cell division inherit all their genes from their parent cells.
6
Q
Explain the role of ATP in cells
A
- ATP hydrolase catalyses ATP -> ADP + Pi
- Energy released is coupled to metabolic reactions
7
Q
How is ATP re-synthesised in cells
A
- ATP synthase catalyses condensation reaction between ADP and PI
- During photosynthesis and respiration
8
Q
Explain why ATP is suitable as the energy currency of cells
A
- High energy bonds between phosphate groups
- Small amounts of energy are released at a time so less energy is wasted as heat
- Single step hydrolysis so energy is available quickly
- Readily re-synthesised
