The Significance of ATP in Cellular Respiration: Understanding the Primary Energy Currency of Cells

Which of the following substances increases in abundance during cellular respiration?Select one:A. OxygenB. GlucoseC. GlycogenD. ATP

The correct answer is D

D. ATP

During cellular respiration, ATP (adenosine triphosphate) increases in abundance. ATP is the primary energy currency of cells and is responsible for storing and releasing energy for various cellular processes. It is produced during the process of cellular respiration, specifically in the final step called oxidative phosphorylation. Here, electrons derived from the breakdown of glucose are passed through a series of protein complexes in the electron transport chain, leading to the generation of a proton gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane. This gradient is then used by ATP synthase to convert ADP (adenosine diphosphate) into ATP.

Oxygen (option A) is used in cellular respiration as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain. It combines with electrons and hydrogen ions to form water in a process called oxidative phosphorylation. While oxygen is crucial for cellular respiration to occur, its abundance does not increase during the process.

Glucose (option B) is the initial fuel molecule for cellular respiration. It is broken down through a series of chemical reactions in glycolysis and the citric acid cycle. However, the overall abundance of glucose does not increase during cellular respiration as it is consumed and transformed into other molecules.

Glycogen (option C) is a polysaccharide formed by the storage of excess glucose molecules in animals. It can be broken down into glucose units when needed to provide energy. While glycogen can be a source of fuel for cellular respiration, its abundance does not increase during the process.

Therefore, the correct answer is D. ATP, as it is the energy-rich molecule that increases in abundance during cellular respiration.

More Answers: