Question

It is mentioned that energy utilized for exercises comes from the breakdown of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Please explain the process.

Answer 1

Answer & explanation:

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a molecule made up of one adenosine molecule and three phosphate radicals (P) capable of storing small amounts of energy (from the breakdown of food) in their chemical bonds, acting as a temporary energy container.

ATP is directly linked to cell metabolic processes such as cellular respiration and photosynthesis. When cells need energy, for the sodium-potassium pump, for example, the ATP molecule breaks down.

This breakdown is made by hydrolysis (ATP breaks using water), so the bond between the phosphate group 2 and the phosphate group 3 breaks down, leaving one Adenosine diphosphate (ADP) molecule, which has two phosphate radicals.

At the end of the process the energy that kept the phosphate groups bound is released and used in processes such as stretching and shortening of muscle fibers, nerve impulses and hormonal regulation. These processes utilize the active energy released by ATP hydrolysis.

ATP - ADP conversion is the fundamental way to get energy because the cell cannot use the glucose molecule directly.