ATP is adenosine triphosphate, a nucleotide involved in metabolism and many biological processes (the molecular energy currency). Nucleotides are also the basic units involved in other central molecules such as DNA and RNA which carry genetic information in cells.
A nucleotide is a molecule composed of a pentose sugar, an organic base and at least one phosphate group.
Chemical energy is important in biological processes because it helps maintain the many reactions that go against a natural equilibrium. These include movement of chemicals against a concentration gradient via active transport, enabling enzyme action as ATP acts as a coenzyme, and in certain cells, movement.
As I write this I am absolutely knackered which is juuuuuuuuust hilarious as I am about to cover ATP! Adenosine triphosphate is a small molecule whose constant breaking down and putting back together reactions form the basis of our biological processes which require…