Final answer:
Carbohydrates are the major source of energy for an athlete's muscles, providing glucose for ATP production. Creatine phosphate, with its phosphate bonds, supplies energy by donating phosphate to ADP to regenerate ATP, supporting short bursts of high-intensity muscle activity.
Step-by-step explanation:
A major source of energy that powers an athlete's muscles is carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is utilized to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), serving as the primary energy currency in cells. This ATP is essential for muscle contraction and other cellular functions. Furthermore, carbohydrates come in the form of complex carbohydrates, like starch and glycogen, or simple sugars, such as glucose and fructose. The digestion process breaks these down into monosaccharides that enter metabolic pathways to generate energy.
In regards to creatine phosphate, it supplies energy to muscles through its phosphate bonds. This compound can quickly donate phosphate to ADP (adenosine diphosphate), forming ATP, which can then be used by muscles for a short burst of energy. However, creatine phosphate's energy supply is rapid but limited in duration, usually lasting around 8-10 seconds of high-intensity activity. After this, the body begins to use glycogen stores to produce ATP, which supplies energy over a slightly longer period.