Question

The critical feature determining whether a substance is a resource is whether it?

1) is abiotic or biotic.
2) is required by an organism and can be used to the point of depletion.
3) is required for growth.
4) can be used to produce ATP.

Answer 1

A substance is considered a resource in biology when it has the potential to produce free energy for various biochemical processes, with ATP being a prime example due to its role in energy transfer and storage in cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

The critical feature determining whether a substance is a resource is its potential use in producing other goods and services, particularly in its ability to deliver energy for various biochemical processes. In the context of biology and chemistry, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is often highlighted as a vital resource for cells as it acts as a universal energy carrier. ATP contains high-energy bonds within its phosphate groups, which, when hydrolyzed, can provide the necessary energy for cellular activities.

Energy currency is a term aptly applied to ATP in living cells, signifying its central role in energy transfer and storage at the molecular level. The hydrolysis of ATP to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) or adenosine monophosphate (AMP) releases free energy - a process crucial for powering cellular functions such as growth, reproduction, movement, and active transport. The capacity of a substance, like ATP, to serve as a resource in producing free energy, is a determinative characteristic of its usefulness to living organisms.