Final answer:
The statement that the free energy of a system increases when two macromolecules form a complex is false. In reality, such formations usually release free energy, thus lowering the system's free energy and increasing overall entropy in accordance with the second law of thermodynamics.
Step-by-step explanation:
When two macromolecules form a complex, the free energy of the system does not increase as a result of an increase in order within the cell; therefore, the correct answer to the question is false. The second law of thermodynamics suggests that the overall entropy, or disorder, of an isolated system will increase over time. This principle applies to biological systems as well, which may seem counterintuitive since the process of life appears to create order. However, biological systems are not isolated; they are open systems that exchange energy and matter with their surroundings.
In the context of chemistry and biology, the formation of a complex between macromolecules, such as protein-DNA complexes or enzyme-substrate complexes, is often accompanied by a release of free energy, making the process spontaneous. This is because these reactions typically lead to a state of lower free energy for the system, and the increase in order at the molecular level is more than offset by the release of energy into the environment, which increases the overall disorder of the universe, thus honoring the second law of thermodynamics.
Big Idea: Utilizing Free Energy in Biological SystemsBiological systems utilize free energy and molecular building blocks not only to form complex structures but also to grow, reproduce, and maintain dynamic homeostasis. This utilization of free energy is an essential aspect of life, and it occurs in both anabolic and catabolic processes. During anabolic reactions, free energy is consumed to build up complex molecules, such as the synthesis of proteins from amino acids. Conversely, catabolic reactions, such as the breakdown of glucose during cellular respiration, release free energy that the cell can use for various functions.