Is the hydrolysis of ATP endergonic or exergonic?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking whether the process of hydrolysis of ATP releases energy (exergonic) or requires energy (endergonic). It addresses the thermodynamics of ATP hydrolysis, which is critical in biological systems.
Answer
Exergonic
The hydrolysis of ATP is exergonic because it releases a lot of energy when the bond between the second and third phosphate groups is broken.
Answer for screen readers
The hydrolysis of ATP is exergonic because it releases a lot of energy when the bond between the second and third phosphate groups is broken.
More Information
ATP hydrolysis is a common exergonic reaction that cells use to power endergonic reactions. The energy released from hydrolyzing ATP is often harnessed to drive various cellular processes.
Tips
Make sure not to confuse the synthesis of ATP, which is endergonic, with its hydrolysis, which is exergonic.
Sources
- Is the hydrolysis of ATP endergonic or exergonic? - homework.study.com
- 7.6: ATP as Energy carrier - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
