ATP and Metabolism
Metabolism Totality of an organism’s chemical reactions Pathway of defined steps beginning with a specific molecule resulting in a certain product catalyzed by a specific enzyme
Catabolic Reactions “downhill” Release of free energy by breaking down complex molecules Cellular respiration Energy that is stored in molecules is available to do work Exergonic Releases free energy
Anabolic “uphill” Energy consumed to build complex molecules Photosynthesis Synthesis of proteins from amino acids Endergonic Absorbs free energy
Energy Coupling Endergonic reactions drive exergonic reactions Photosynthesis drives Cellular Respiration
Cell Work Chemical Synthesis of polymers from monomers Transport Pumping substances against gradient Mechanical Muscle contractions
ATP Adenosine Triphosphate By hydrolysis of phosphate ATP yields ADP and releases energy
Phosphorylation Phosphate is transferred to another molecule this molecule is phosphorylated Regeneration of ATP