2006-09-12 15:26:38 · 5 answers · asked by Simplicity 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
It really is chemical + electric + thermodynamic energy. ATP is not really a molecule, it is an anion with 4 negative charges (3 phosphate groups). There is a great electric tension in ATP because of the proximity of these 4 negative charges (electric repulsion). When the appropriate enzyme hydrolyzes the covalent bond of the last phosphate group this great tension is relieved and the products are very stable (ADP + Pi). It liberates the energy that was necessary to keep these groups together plus thermodynamic energy (increase of entropy). ATP can also be cleaved by different enzymes that liberate AMP + PPI thus releasing more energy. The cells have proteic machineries which transduces this released energy into forms they need, such as chemical energy for anabolic pathways, muscle contraction, temperature maintenance, etc.
2006-09-12 17:31:05 · answer #1 · answered by Vovó (Grandma) 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The energy is stored in the covalent bond that binds the third phosphate group. When the phosphate is release, the energy of it's bond is also released. So an ATP moleculre becomes an ADP molecule, plus a free Phosphate, plus energy.
2006-09-12 22:30:28 · answer #2 · answered by Carbon-based 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The energy is chemical potential energy. When ATP is hydrolyzed in a biochemical reaction, it yields ADP + inorganic phosphate. The breaking of the covalent bond between phosphate groups releases the energy contained within that bond, and so is used to 'power' biochemical processes in the body.
2006-09-13 00:20:30 · answer #3 · answered by trolling_on_dubs 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Potential energy??
2006-09-12 22:34:11 · answer #4 · answered by Paul 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
chemical energy
2006-09-12 22:30:35 · answer #5 · answered by mfi 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋