Final answer:
DNA polymerization derives its energy from the molecule ATP, which releases energy during its hydrolysis to ADP. This energy facilitates the formation of phosphodiester bonds, essential for DNA replication and cell function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The energy needed for the polymerization of DNA, an endergonic reaction, is derived from the high-energy molecule known as adenosine triphosphate (ATP). During DNA replication, the enzyme DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the growing DNA strand using the energy released from the hydrolysis of ATP, which contains high-energy phosphate bonds. The polymerization process includes breaking a high-energy bond in the incoming nucleotide triphosphate (NTP) and forming a high-energy phosphodiester bond in DNA.
ATP acts as the energy currency of the cell, and its hydrolysis into adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and inorganic phosphate releases energy needed for various cellular processes including DNA replication. The released energy is used to form the bond between the incoming nucleotide and the growing DNA strand, enabling the creation of complex biomolecules necessary for life.