Biochemistry ATP and NADH Concepts

Phosphorylation

• Refers to the addition of a phosphate group to a molecule, typically involving ADP and inorganic phosphate (P).
• The process generates ATP and produces water as a byproduct.

ATP Production

• Word equation: ADP + P + Energy = ATP + H₂O.
• Represents how energy is stored in the form of ATP, a key energy currency in cells.

Advantages of ATP

• ATP is a reusable energy source, allowing cells to regenerate it multiple times for various cellular processes.

NADH

• High-energy molecule that plays a critical role in transferring high energy electrons.
• Essential for ATP production during the electron transport chain.

Full Name of NADH

• Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide.

NADPH

• High-energy molecule used for transferring electrons and a H+ ion, particularly in plants.
• Vital for the Calvin Cycle in the process of glucose synthesis.

Full Name of NADPH

• Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate.

NADH Production

• Word equation: NAD⁺ + H⁺ + 2e⁻ = NADH.
• Describes the reduction of NAD⁺ to NADH, essential for energy metabolism.

NADPH Production

• Word equation: NADP⁺ + H⁺ + 2e⁻ = NADPH.
• Highlights the conversion of NADP⁺ to NADPH, important in photosynthetic processes.