Energy

Abstract

This chapter considers the notion of energy. Energy underpins the maintenance of life. Living cells resemble chemical factories within which thousands of reactions take place, and each reaction involves transformations of matter and energy. The chapter explains the function and features of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as a universal energy currency. It also outlines the principles of food oxidation and the harnessing of energy. Enzymes act as biological catalysts because they lower the activation energy required before a reaction can happen. The chapter also tackles the electron affinity of electron carriers or hydrogen carriers. These determine what can donate electrons.

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Identifiers

DOI

10.1093/hesc/9780198783695.003.0019

Journal

Biological Science

Year

2022