Question

List the three main kinds of cellular work. Explain in general terms how cells obtain the energy to do cellular work.

1. Mechanical work.
2. Transport work.
3. Chemical work.

Answer 1

Cells obtain energy to do cellular work through the transformation of chemical energy into ATP. The three main kinds of cellular work are mechanical, transport, and chemical work.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cells obtain the energy to do cellular work through the transformation of chemical energy stored in organic molecules, such as sugars and fats, into energy within molecules of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP is the main energy currency of cells and is easily accessible to do work. The three main kinds of cellular work are:

1. Mechanical work: This includes the movement of organelles within the cell, as well as the contraction of muscle fibers to create movement.
2. Transport work: This involves the active transport of molecules across cell membranes, such as the uptake of nutrients and the removal of waste products.
3. Chemical work: This refers to the synthesis and breakdown of molecules within the cell, including the building of complex molecules from simpler ones.

Cells perform three main kinds of cellular work: mechanical work, transport work, and chemical work. To fuel these activities, cells obtain energy from the environment and convert it into a usable form.

Chemical energy, stored within organic molecules such as sugars and fats, is transformed through a series of cellular chemical reactions into energy within molecules of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP serves as a universally accessible energy currency for cells, enabling them to accomplish tasks like building complex molecules, transporting materials, powering the motion of cilia or flagella, and contracting muscle fibers to create movement.