ATP acts as the energy currency in cells. When ATP is used, it loses a phosphate group and becomes ADP, similar to a partially charged battery. Mitochondria recharge ADP by adding a phosphate group. This process regenerates ATP, restoring its energy for future use in cellular respiration.
When energy is abundant, cells can regenerate ATP from ADP through a process called phosphorylation. This process adds a phosphate group back to ADP, effectively recharging the molecule. During cellular respiration and photosynthesis, energy from food or sunlight is harnessed to facilitate this conversion.
Understanding the roles of ATP and ADP highlights their significance in the energy cycle of cells. As we explore further, we will investigate the mechanisms that drive ATP production, including glycolysis and the electron transport chain. These processes reveal how cells maintain their energy balance and support life.
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