Biochemistry

Study of chemical processes within and relating to living organisms.

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Basic Concepts

Cellular Energy and Metabolism

Powering the Cell

All living things need energy to grow, move, and reproduce. Cells obtain and use energy through a series of chemical reactions known as metabolism.

ATP: The Energy Currency

  • ATP (adenosine triphosphate) stores and transfers energy within cells.
  • Cells produce ATP mainly through cellular respiration.

Metabolic Pathways

  • Catabolism: Breaking down molecules to release energy.
  • Anabolism: Building complex molecules using energy.

Major Processes

  • Glycolysis: The breakdown of glucose to produce ATP.
  • Photosynthesis: Plants capture sunlight to make food and oxygen.

The balance of these processes keeps cells alive and functioning.

Examples

  • Your muscles use ATP to contract during exercise.

  • Plants convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis.

In a Nutshell

Cells run on ATP, produced and used in complex metabolic pathways.

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Genetic Information and Molecular Biology
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