Edexcel: Topic 5 KBP The role of ATP

ATP (adenosine triphosphate) consists of adenine (an organic base), ribose (a 5 carbon sugar) and 3 phosphate groups.

The third phosphate group is only loosely bonded to the second phosphate group and so is easily removed.  When this phosphate group is removed adenosine diphosphate (ADP) is formed.  Once removed the phosphate group becomes hydrated and forms bonds with the surrounding water molecules.  Energy is released as these bonds form energy is released and used to drive some of the reactions…