Question

Combustion of glucose (C6H12O6) is the main source of energy for animal cells: C6H12O6(s)+ 6O2(g)→ 6CO2(g)+ 6H2O(l) =ΔGrxn37°C−2872.kJ This energy is generally stored as ATP (adenosine triphosphate) molecules, which can release it when convenient by hydrolysis ("water-assisted decomposition") into ADP (adenosine diphosphate) molecules and a phosphate anion, often given the symbol Pi in biochemistry: ATP(aq)→ ADP(aq)+ Pi (aq) =ΔGrxn−35 to 70kJ The actual amount of free energy released by the hydrolysis of ATP varies, depending on the exact conditions inside the cell. Suppose under certain conditions hydrolysis of ATP actually releases −41.9/kJmol. Calculate the maximum number of ATPs that could be created from ADPs and Pi by the combustion of a molecule of glucose. Your answer must be a whole number.

Answer 1

Answer:

The maximum number of ATPs that could be created from ADPs and Pi by the combustion of a molecule of glucose is 68.

Explanation:

$C_6H_{12}O_6(s)+6O_2(g)\rightarrow 6CO_2(g)+6H_2O(l),\Delta G_{rxn}=-2872.kJ/mol$

2872 kJ of heat is released when 1 mole of glucose undergoes combustion.This energy store is released in in the form of ATP molecules.

When all of energy in the form of ATP undergoes hydrolysis gives ADP  molecules and a phosphate anion along with release 41.9 kJ of energy.

ATP(aq) → ADP(aq)+ Pi (aq) ,$\Delta G_{rxn}=-41.9 kJ/mol$

ADP(aq)+ Pi (aq) → ATP(aq) ,$\Delta G_{rxn}=41.9 kJ/mol$

41.9 kJ of energy is required convert 1 mole of ADP and 1 mol of phosphate anion into 1 mol of ATP.

The maximum number of ATPs:

$\frac{2872 kJ/mol}{41.9 kJ/mol}=68.54\approx 68$