ADENOSINE TRIPHOSPHATE Meaning and
Definition
-
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a complex organic molecule that plays a fundamental role as an energy carrier in all living organisms. It is often referred to as the "molecular currency" within cells, due to its central role in storing and transferring energy.
ATP consists of three main components: an adenine molecule (a nitrogenous base), a ribose sugar molecule, and a chain of three phosphate groups. The phosphate groups are linked together by high-energy bonds, and it is the breaking and forming of these bonds that release or store energy, respectively.
The primary function of ATP is to provide energy to drive cellular processes. When ATP is hydrolyzed, meaning one phosphate group is removed, it releases energy that can be utilized by cells to perform work. This process is known as ATP hydrolysis.
In addition to its role as an energy carrier, ATP also participates in other crucial physiological functions. It is involved in signal transduction processes, where it acts as a second messenger to relay information within the cell. ATP is also used in active transport processes, enabling the movement of ions and molecules across cell membranes against concentration gradients.
Overall, adenosine triphosphate is a vital molecule in living systems, serving as a universal energy source required for cellular activities, supporting metabolism, transport, and various biochemical reactions.
Common Misspellings for ADENOSINE TRIPHOSPHATE
- zdenosine triphosphate
- sdenosine triphosphate
- wdenosine triphosphate
- qdenosine triphosphate
- asenosine triphosphate
- axenosine triphosphate
- acenosine triphosphate
- afenosine triphosphate
- arenosine triphosphate
- aeenosine triphosphate
- adwnosine triphosphate
- adsnosine triphosphate
- addnosine triphosphate
- adrnosine triphosphate
- ad4nosine triphosphate
- ad3nosine triphosphate
- adebosine triphosphate
- ademosine triphosphate
- adejosine triphosphate
Etymology of ADENOSINE TRIPHOSPHATE
The word "adenosine triphosphate" is derived from its chemical composition, as well as the names of the components it is made up of.
Etymology breakdown:
1. Adenosine: It is derived from the compound adenine, which is a nucleotide base found in DNA and RNA, combined with the sugar molecule ribose. The suffix "-ine" refers to a nitrogenous organic compound. Adenosine represents the combination of adenine and ribose.
2. Triphosphate: "Tri-" indicates three, and "phosphate" refers to a molecule made up of phosphorus and oxygen atoms. The term "triphosphate" refers to the presence of three phosphate groups in ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
Similar spelling words for ADENOSINE TRIPHOSPHATE
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
