Question

Select the statement that accurately characterizes ATP

a. It contains the nitrogen base cytosine
b. it contains three posphate molecules
c. It is generated by a catabolic reaction
d. It contains five high-energy bonds

Answer 1

ATP is characterized by its three phosphate molecules and the high-energy bonds between them, which release energy when hydrolyzed to power cellular processes.

Step-by-step explanation:

To accurately characterize ATP, adenosine triphosphate, one must understand its structural composition and the energy it provides to cellular processes. ATP consists of an adenine base, a ribose sugar, and three phosphate groups. The energy ATP provides comes from the high-energy bonds between these phosphate groups, specifically the bond between the second and third phosphates. These high-energy bonds release energy when broken during hydrolysis, aiding in various cellular activities such as muscle contraction and the transport of substances across cell membranes.

Thus, the correct statement about ATP is that it contains three phosphate molecules. This is the defining characteristic of ATP and what enables it to act as the principal energy carrier in the cell.