Question

Expand the following:
a) ATP
b) ADP
c) NADP
d) RUBP

Answer 1

a) ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate): ATP is a nucleotide molecule that serves as the primary energy currency in cells. It consists of three phosphate groups attached to an adenosine molecule. ATP is crucial for various cellular processes that require energy, such as muscle contraction, active transport of molecules across cell membranes, and synthesis of macromolecules. When ATP is hydrolyzed to ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and inorganic phosphate, energy is released, which can be utilized by cells for various metabolic activities.

b) ADP (Adenosine Diphosphate): ADP is a molecule that forms when one phosphate group is removed from ATP. It is an intermediary form of ATP during energy metabolism. When ADP gains a phosphate group through phosphorylation, it becomes ATP, storing energy that can be later released during cellular processes. ADP is continuously converted back to ATP through cellular respiration or photosynthesis, ensuring the constant availability of energy for cellular functions.

c) NADP (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate): NADP is a coenzyme involved in various metabolic reactions, particularly in anabolic processes such as photosynthesis. It is structurally similar to NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) but contains an additional phosphate group. NADP functions as an electron carrier, accepting and donating electrons during redox reactions. In photosynthesis, NADP accepts electrons and hydrogen ions from water during the light-dependent reactions, playing a crucial role in the conversion of light energy into chemical energy.

d) RUBP (Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate): RUBP is a five-carbon sugar molecule that plays a key role in the Calvin cycle, a series of reactions that occur during the dark phase of photosynthesis. It acts as a CO2 acceptor and combines with CO2 in the presence of the enzyme Rubisco (Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase) to initiate the process of carbon fixation. RUBP is regenerated at the end of the Calvin cycle to continue the assimilation of carbon dioxide and the synthesis of glucose and other organic compounds in plants.

Answer 2

Step-by-step explanation:

ATP: Adenosine Triphosphate, the main energy currency of cells.

ADP: Adenosine Diphosphate, formed when ATP loses one phosphate group.

NADP: Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate, a coenzyme in cellular metabolic reactions.

RUBP: Ribulose-1,5-Bisphosphate, involved in the Calvin cycle of photosynthesis.