ATP- Definition, Structure, Production, Synthesis, Functions

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) is a pyrophosphate molecule that provides energy for conducting metabolic processes, i.e., sustaining the life of a cell.

It is a complex organic high-energy compound that provides energy for conducting metabolic processes. It is referred to as “the molecular unit of currency” of the intracellular energy transfer or “Energy Currency of the Cell” or “energy unit of the cell”. It is the primary energy source for use and storage inside every cell.

It is a complex organic molecule consisting of adenine, ribose, and a triphosphate moiety. The energy released during cellular respiration is trapped in the form of two phosphodiester bonds in the ATP molecule. During the hydrolysis of these high-energy phosphodiester bonds in ATP molecules, energy is released, then used for cellular activities.

IUPAC Name: Adenosine 5′-(tetrahydrogen triphosphate)

Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₁₆N₅O₁₃P₃

Molecular Weight: 507.18 g/mol

Density: 1.04 g/cm³

Solubility: Water soluble