Why is ATP hydrolysis exergonic?

Prepare for the Microbial Metabolism Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with helpful hints and detailed explanations. Ace your test with ease!

Multiple Choice

Why is ATP hydrolysis exergonic?

ATP hydrolysis is exergonic because converting ATP to ADP and inorganic phosphate lowers the system’s free energy. The products are more stable than the reactant, thanks to several factors: resonance stabilization of the inorganic phosphate, relief of electrostatic repulsion among the three closely packed phosphate groups, and better hydration of the products. This collective gain in stability gives a negative ΔG, so energy is released and can be captured to power cellular work. That released energy is what makes this reaction "usable energy" for the cell. If a choice claimed energy had to be put in, or that the reaction isn’t favorable, or that it’s endergonic, those descriptions don’t match what actually happens—the process releases energy and is favorable under typical cellular conditions.

ATP hydrolysis is exergonic because converting ATP to ADP and inorganic phosphate lowers the system’s free energy. The products are more stable than the reactant, thanks to several factors: resonance stabilization of the inorganic phosphate, relief of electrostatic repulsion among the three closely packed phosphate groups, and better hydration of the products. This collective gain in stability gives a negative ΔG, so energy is released and can be captured to power cellular work.

That released energy is what makes this reaction "usable energy" for the cell. If a choice claimed energy had to be put in, or that the reaction isn’t favorable, or that it’s endergonic, those descriptions don’t match what actually happens—the process releases energy and is favorable under typical cellular conditions.

More practice questions