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ATP

Definition

ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the primary energy carrier in all living organisms. It stores and transfers energy within cells for various metabolic processes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. ATP is produced during glycolysis, which occurs in the cytoplasm of the cell.
  2. One molecule of glucose can generate a net gain of 2 ATP molecules through glycolysis.
  3. ATP consists of adenine, ribose (a sugar), and three phosphate groups.
  4. The hydrolysis of ATP to ADP (adenosine diphosphate) releases energy that cells use for biological work.
  5. Enzymes like hexokinase and phosphofructokinase regulate key steps in glycolysis where ATP is both consumed and produced.

Review Questions

  • What are the components that make up an ATP molecule?
  • How many net ATP molecules are produced from one molecule of glucose during glycolysis?
  • What role does ATP play in cellular metabolic processes?

Related terms

Glycolysis: A series of reactions that break down glucose into pyruvate, producing a small amount of ATP.

ADP (Adenosine Diphosphate): A low-energy molecule that can be converted back into ATP through phosphorylation.

Hexokinase: An enzyme that catalyzes the first step in glycolysis, where glucose is phosphorylated using one ATP molecule.



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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.