Nucleic Acids&inorganic ions Flashcards
(18 cards)
Define the process of ATP hydrolysis.
ATP hydrolysis is the process where ATP is broken down into ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi) by a hydrolysis reaction and the enzyme ATP hydrolase.
Why can’t ATP pass out of the cell and how does this benefit the cell?
ATP can’t pass out of the cell, ensuring the cell always has an immediate supply of energy. This is different from glucose, which can leave the cell, potentially causing the cell to run out of glucose.
Define the process of phosphorylation and its relation to ATP.
Phosphorylation is a process where ATP can transfer energy to another molecule by transferring one of its phosphate groups. This makes other compounds more reactive. Glucose cannot do this, as it does not contain phosphate groups.
Explain the process of energy release from ATP and how it differs from glucose.
Only one bond in ATP is broken or hydrolyzed to release energy, which is why energy release is immediate. In contrast, glucose would need several bonds to be broken down to release all its energy.
How does the size and solubility of ATP benefit its function within a cell?
ATP is small and soluble, allowing it to be easily transported around the cell. It can move around the cytoplasm with ease to provide energy for chemical reactions within the cell.
Describe how ATP releases energy compared to glucose.
ATP releases energy in small, manageable amounts so no energy is wasted. This means that cells do not overheat from wasted heat energy, and cells are less likely to run out of resources. In comparison, glucose would release large amounts of energy that could result in wasted energy.
Define phosphorylation in the context of ATP.
Phosphorylation is the process where the inorganic phosphate released during the hydrolysis of ATP is bonded onto completely different compounds to make them more reactive. This happens to glucose at the start of respiration to make it more reactive.
Why is ATP considered an immediate energy source?
ATP is considered an immediate energy source because only one bond has to be hydrolyzed to release energy. As ATP cannot be stored, this energy release occurs straight away.
Explain the significance of the bonds between the inorganic phosphate groups in ATP.
The bonds between the inorganic phosphate groups in ATP are high energy bonds. By breaking one of these bonds, a small amount of energy is released which can be used in chemical reactions.
Describe the role of Hydrogen ions in organisms’ cytoplasm.
Hydrogen ions are relevant when considering enzymes and proteins denaturing, increasing heart rate, and the Bohr effect on hemoglobin.
How is ATP made during respiration?
ATP is made from ADP, adenosine diphosphate, by the addition of an inorganic phosphate via a condensation reaction and using the enzyme ATP synthase.
Describe the chemical symbol for inorganic phosphate.
The chemical symbol for inorganic phosphate is represented as Pi, where P stands for phosphate and i for inorganic.
Describe the structure of ATP.
ATP is comprised of adenine, a nitrogenous base (meaning a base that contains nitrogen), ribose (a pentose sugar), and three inorganic phosphate groups.
What makes ATP unique compared to other molecules that release energy?
The emphasis is on ATP being an IMMEDIATE energy source. This is what is unique about ATP compared to other molecules that release energy, such as glucose.
What is ATP and why is it essential to metabolism?
ATP, or Adenosine Triphosphate, is an immediate source of energy for biological processes. Metabolic reactions in cells require a constant, steady supply of ATP.
Explain the role of Phosphate ions as components of DNA and of ATP.
Phosphate ions are relevant to DNA, RNA, and ATP structure.
How do Sodium ions contribute to the co-transport of glucose and amino acids?
Sodium ions are relevant in the absorption of glucose and resting/action potential in the nervous systems.
Define the function of Iron ions in the cytoplasm of organisms.
Iron ions act as a component of hemoglobin, linking to quaternary structure proteins and the function of hemoglobin.
