Final answer:
ATP is thermodynamically suited as a carrier of phosphoryl groups in animal cells because it is intermediate in group-transfer potential, is still hydrolyzed in cells without enzyme action, and can be produced from phosphocreatine.
Step-by-step explanation:
ATP is thermodynamically suited as a carrier of phosphoryl groups in animal cells because it is intermediate in group-transfer potential, is still hydrolyzed in cells without enzyme action, and can be produced from phosphocreatine. The high-energy content of ATP allows it to perform cellular work by releasing free energy when the phosphate groups are hydrolyzed, providing energy for various cellular functions such as muscle contraction and ion transport. Additionally, ATP can transfer its phosphate group to other organic compounds, such as glucose, to store energy for later use or supply immediate energy. However, one reason ATP is NOT suited as a carrier of phosphoryl groups in animal cells is that it is stable under cell conditions, meaning it does not easily release its phosphate group without enzymatic action.