AP Bio Insta-Review Topic 3.4*: Cellular Energy

Front

What molecule is responsible for powering cellular processes?

Back

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) is the primary energy carrier in cells, providing energy for various cellular functions.

Front

What happens when there is a loss of energy in a biological system?

Back

Loss of energy can lead to death, as cells require energy to maintain their functions and processes.

Front

What does the Second Law of Thermodynamics state?

Back

The Second Law of Thermodynamics states that every reaction increases the entropy of the universe, meaning systems tend to move towards disorder.

Front

What is an exergonic reaction?

Back

An exergonic reaction is a chemical reaction that releases energy, typically resulting in a negative change in Gibbs free energy (ΔG).

Front

What characterizes an endergonic reaction?

Back

An endergonic reaction is characterized by a positive change in Gibbs free energy (ΔG) and is nonspontaneous, requiring energy input.

Front

Define ATP and its role in cellular energy.

Back

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) is a nucleotide that serves as the main energy currency of the cell, driving various biochemical reactions.

Front

What is the relationship between metabolism and energy?

Back

Metabolism encompasses all chemical reactions in the body, including those that release energy (catabolism) and those that consume energy (anabolism).

Front

Explain the concept of entropy in biological systems.

Back

Entropy is a measure of disorder or randomness in a system; in biological systems, it tends to increase as energy transformations occur.

Front

What is the significance of Gibbs free energy in chemical reactions?

Back

Gibbs free energy (ΔG) determines the spontaneity of a reaction; reactions with negative ΔG are spontaneous, while those with positive ΔG are not.

Front

What is the difference between catabolic and anabolic reactions?

Back

Catabolic reactions break down molecules to release energy, while anabolic reactions build complex molecules and require energy input.