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.