Endergonic reaction

Definition

An endergonic reaction is a chemical reaction that requires an input of energy to proceed. These reactions are non-spontaneous and have a positive Gibbs free energy change.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Endergonic reactions require the absorption of energy from their surroundings.
2. They are characterized by a positive change in Gibbs free energy (ΔG > 0).
3. In microbial metabolism, these reactions often involve anabolic processes, such as the synthesis of macromolecules.
4. ATP hydrolysis can be coupled with endergonic reactions to make them energetically favorable.
5. Endergonic reactions are typically associated with biosynthetic pathways in microorganisms.

Review Questions

• What is the main characteristic of an endergonic reaction?
• How is ATP related to endergonic reactions in microbial metabolism?
• Why do endergonic reactions require an input of energy?

Related terms

Exergonic Reaction: A chemical reaction that releases energy and has a negative Gibbs free energy change.

Gibbs Free Energy: A thermodynamic quantity representing the amount of energy available to do work.

Anabolism: The set of metabolic pathways that construct molecules from smaller units, requiring energy input.