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Cells need usable energy, not just fuel
ATP helps couple energy-releasing processes to cellular work.
The idea
Cells continually produce and use ATP. It is an energy-transfer molecule rather than a large long-term fuel store.
An example
Muscle contraction uses ATP while metabolism replenishes it from available fuels.
Put it into practice
Distinguish stored fuel from the molecule that helps power immediate work.
Further reading: OpenStax · Biology 2e ↗
Test yourself: What is an important role of ATP?
Coupling energy supply to cellular work
ATP participates in transferring usable energy to cellular processes.
Explanation and illustrative examples by One Card Wiser. Source linked for further reading.
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