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Give two ways in which the properties of ATP make it a suitable source of energy in biological processes. (2)

a) ATP is stable and can be stored for long periods.
b) ATP is easily convertible into carbohydrates.
c) ATP can transfer energy quickly and release energy in small, manageable amounts.
d) ATP is a gas and provides a clean source of energy.

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Final answer:

ATP's suitability as an energy source comes from its ability to transfer energy quickly and release it in manageable amounts. Its instability is favorable for immediate energy use within the cell, but it also means ATP cannot be stored long-term.

Step-by-step explanation:

Giving two ways in which the properties of ATP make it a suitable source of energy in biological processes, we can consider the following points:

  • ATP can transfer energy quickly and release energy in small, manageable amounts. This is crucial because cells need immediate energy to support various functions such as muscle contraction, nerve impulse propagation, and active transport across cell membranes.
  • Contrary to the statement that 'ATP is stable and can be stored for long periods,' this is not accurate. ATP is actually quite unstable and cannot be stored long-term within the cell; however, its instability makes it ideal for immediate use since it can be rapidly mobilized to release energy.

While ATP is not convertible into carbohydrates directly, it plays a role in metabolic processes where glucose is used to regenerate ATP from ADP during processes like glycolysis and cellular respiration. Also, ATP is not a gas but a molecule that exists in a solid state within the cell.

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