Final answer:
Adding three phosphate groups to adenosine forms ATP, the high-energy molecule known as the energy currency of the cell. ATP stores potential energy within its phosphate bonds, which, when hydrolyzed, release energy for cellular activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you add three phosphate groups to adenosine, you will get the "Powerhouse of the Cell" and high-energy molecule ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate). ATP is known as the energy currency of the cell because it is used to store and transport energy for a variety of cellular processes. Adenosine itself is a nucleoside made up of the nitrogenous base adenine and a five-carbon sugar, ribose.
The structure of ATP includes the adenosine backbone and three phosphate groups attached to the ribose sugar. These phosphate groups, labeled alpha, beta, and gamma, are connected by phosphoanhydride bonds, which are considered high-energy due to the high potential energy they store. The bond between the second and third phosphate groups is particularly important, as breaking this bond during hydrolysis releases a significant amount of energy that can be harnessed by the cell.
When ATP is hydrolyzed, it becomes ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and an inorganic phosphate group (Pi), releasing free energy that is vital for the functioning of the cell, from muscle contraction to the transport of substances across cell membranes.