How does atp change structure when releasing energy?

1 Answer
Jun 13, 2015

#ATP# is a carrier of energy, and it keeps it when it is not needed and releasing it when it is.

Explanation:

When energy is released, #ATP# loses one of its phosphate groups and turns to #ADP# (ADENOSINE DI-PHOSPHATE). #ADP# is present in cells and has two phosphate groups firmly attached. The energy from respiration is used to form another phosphate group to each molecule to form #ATP#.

#ATP- ADP + "phosphate" + "energy"#, and here is an image for this chemical reaction is given. Observe how in #ADP#, the #gamma#-#PO_4# group is removed and results in release of tremendous energy.

https://images.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgleesonbiology.pbworks.com%2Ff%2F1221960382%2F03_32_ATP_and_ADP_cycle.jpg&f=1