ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the primary energy currency in cells,... Show more
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
6
0
Greta Bolognani
02/09/2025
Biology
ATP
255
•
2 Sept 2025
•
How Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) Works: What is ATP in Biology and How Does it Release Energy?
Greta Bolognani
@gretabolognani_dmmh
1 / 2
ATP Synthesis and Utilization
This page delves deeper into the processes of ATP synthesis and utilization, highlighting the importance of ATP in cellular energy metabolism.
ATP Synthesis: ATP is primarily produced through two main processes:
- Aerobic respiration
- Photosynthesis (in plants)
Definition: Aerobic respiration is the process of breaking down glucose in the presence of oxygen to produce ATP.
The synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi) is a condensation reaction: ADP + Pi + Energy → ATP
Vocabulary: A condensation reaction joins two molecules together with the formation of a chemical bond, involving the elimination of a water molecule.
ATP Utilization: When cells require energy, ATP is hydrolyzed to ADP and Pi: ATP → ADP + Pi + Energy (30.6 kJ/mol)
Highlight: The energy released from ATP hydrolysis can be coupled to other energy-requiring reactions in the cell, powering various cellular processes.
Role of ATP in Cellular Processes:
- Protein synthesis: ATP provides energy for the formation of peptide bonds.
- Active transport: ATP powers the movement of molecules against concentration gradients.
- Muscle contraction: ATP enables the sliding of actin and myosin filaments.
- Nerve impulse transmission: ATP maintains ion gradients across cell membranes.
Example: In anaerobic respiration, which occurs in the absence of oxygen, less ATP is produced compared to aerobic respiration.
ATP as Universal Energy Currency: ATP is often referred to as the universal energy currency in organisms because:
- It is used by all living organisms
- It provides a common energy source for various cellular processes
- It allows for efficient energy transfer and utilization
Quote: "ATP isn't energy itself; it's a store of energy. Energy is used to make ATP, then it's released when ATP is hydrolyzed to ADP and Pi."
Understanding the role of ATP in cellular processes is crucial for students studying Biology at the class 10 and A-level. It forms the foundation for comprehending more complex topics in energy metabolism and cellular function.
ATP: The Cellular Energy Currency
ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is a vital molecule in cellular energy metabolism, serving as the primary energy currency for various biological processes. This page explores the structure, function, and importance of ATP in living organisms.
Definition: ATP is a nucleotide molecule consisting of adenine, ribose, and three phosphate groups, storing and transferring energy within cells.
Structure of ATP: ATP is composed of three main components:
- Adenine (a nitrogenous base)
- Ribose
- Three phosphate groups
Highlight: The high-energy bonds between the phosphate groups in ATP store the energy that cells use for various functions.
How ATP Works in Cells:
- ATP is produced during cellular respiration, which occurs in the mitochondria.
- Energy from glucose is used to synthesize ATP through a condensation reaction.
- ATP diffuses to parts of the cell that require energy.
- Hydrolysis of ATP releases energy for cellular processes.
Vocabulary: Hydrolysis is the breaking of a chemical bond between two molecules using water.
Importance of ATP:
- Powers chemical reactions to build larger molecules
- Enables movement in organisms
- Maintains body temperature
Example: ATP is used in the synthesis of proteins, where it provides energy for the formation of peptide bonds between amino acids.
ATP Cycle: There is a constant cycle between ATP and ADP + Pi (inorganic phosphate) in cells:
- ATP hydrolysis: ATP → ADP + Pi + Energy (30.6 kJ/mol)
- ATP synthesis: ADP + Pi + Energy → ATP
Highlight: This cycle allows energy to be stored and released as needed by the cell.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
How Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) Works: What is ATP in Biology and How Does it Release Energy?
Greta Bolognani
@gretabolognani_dmmh
ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the primary energy currency in cells, playing a crucial role in various biological processes. It is produced through respiration and used to power cellular activities.
- ATP structure: Composed of adenine, ribose, and three phosphate groups... Show more
ATP Synthesis and Utilization
This page delves deeper into the processes of ATP synthesis and utilization, highlighting the importance of ATP in cellular energy metabolism.
ATP Synthesis: ATP is primarily produced through two main processes:
- Aerobic respiration
- Photosynthesis (in plants)
Definition: Aerobic respiration is the process of breaking down glucose in the presence of oxygen to produce ATP.
The synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi) is a condensation reaction: ADP + Pi + Energy → ATP
Vocabulary: A condensation reaction joins two molecules together with the formation of a chemical bond, involving the elimination of a water molecule.
ATP Utilization: When cells require energy, ATP is hydrolyzed to ADP and Pi: ATP → ADP + Pi + Energy (30.6 kJ/mol)
Highlight: The energy released from ATP hydrolysis can be coupled to other energy-requiring reactions in the cell, powering various cellular processes.
Role of ATP in Cellular Processes:
- Protein synthesis: ATP provides energy for the formation of peptide bonds.
- Active transport: ATP powers the movement of molecules against concentration gradients.
- Muscle contraction: ATP enables the sliding of actin and myosin filaments.
- Nerve impulse transmission: ATP maintains ion gradients across cell membranes.
Example: In anaerobic respiration, which occurs in the absence of oxygen, less ATP is produced compared to aerobic respiration.
ATP as Universal Energy Currency: ATP is often referred to as the universal energy currency in organisms because:
- It is used by all living organisms
- It provides a common energy source for various cellular processes
- It allows for efficient energy transfer and utilization
Quote: "ATP isn't energy itself; it's a store of energy. Energy is used to make ATP, then it's released when ATP is hydrolyzed to ADP and Pi."
Understanding the role of ATP in cellular processes is crucial for students studying Biology at the class 10 and A-level. It forms the foundation for comprehending more complex topics in energy metabolism and cellular function.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
ATP: The Cellular Energy Currency
ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is a vital molecule in cellular energy metabolism, serving as the primary energy currency for various biological processes. This page explores the structure, function, and importance of ATP in living organisms.
Definition: ATP is a nucleotide molecule consisting of adenine, ribose, and three phosphate groups, storing and transferring energy within cells.
Structure of ATP: ATP is composed of three main components:
- Adenine (a nitrogenous base)
- Ribose
- Three phosphate groups
Highlight: The high-energy bonds between the phosphate groups in ATP store the energy that cells use for various functions.
How ATP Works in Cells:
- ATP is produced during cellular respiration, which occurs in the mitochondria.
- Energy from glucose is used to synthesize ATP through a condensation reaction.
- ATP diffuses to parts of the cell that require energy.
- Hydrolysis of ATP releases energy for cellular processes.
Vocabulary: Hydrolysis is the breaking of a chemical bond between two molecules using water.
Importance of ATP:
- Powers chemical reactions to build larger molecules
- Enables movement in organisms
- Maintains body temperature
Example: ATP is used in the synthesis of proteins, where it provides energy for the formation of peptide bonds between amino acids.
ATP Cycle: There is a constant cycle between ATP and ADP + Pi (inorganic phosphate) in cells:
- ATP hydrolysis: ATP → ADP + Pi + Energy (30.6 kJ/mol)
- ATP synthesis: ADP + Pi + Energy → ATP
Highlight: This cycle allows energy to be stored and released as needed by the cell.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user