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Questions and Answers
What characterizes an exergonic reaction?
Which of the following statements about endergonic reactions is true?
In what state are cells regarding equilibrium?
What happens in a closed system regarding reactions and equilibrium?
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What is the primary outcome of a catabolic pathway in a cell?
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Study Notes
Free Energy and Life's Chemistry
- Free energy is a crucial concept that explains the energetics of chemical reactions in biological processes.
- It determines whether a reaction can occur spontaneously or requires an input of energy.
Exergonic vs. Endergonic Reactions
- Exergonic reactions release free energy, indicating they proceed spontaneously, allowing work to be done by the system.
- Endergonic reactions require an input of free energy from the environment to occur, making them nonspontaneous.
Equilibrium in Chemical Reactions
- In a closed system, reactions will ultimately reach equilibrium, at which point no work can be performed as the system's energy is maximized.
- Cells maintain a state far from equilibrium, allowing them to continuously perform work and process materials.
Metabolism and Catabolic Pathways
- Metabolism comprises all chemical reactions within a cell, ensuring they never reach equilibrium, which is vital for life.
- Catabolic pathways break down molecules and release free energy through a series of coordinated reactions, contributing to the cell's energy needs.
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Description
Explore the fundamental concepts of free energy in biochemistry, focusing on exergonic and endergonic reactions. Understand the significance of metabolic pathways in cellular processes and how these reactions contribute to life. This quiz delves into the dynamics of energy in chemical reactions vital for understanding metabolic function.
