Biology / Unit 3 Bio 0508 short lesson, about 20 seconds
ATP Structure
Captions available
The idea
ATP, adenosine triphosphate, is a nucleoside bound to three phosphate groups, its two outer phosphate bonds high-energy because their breakdown releases substantial free energy.
In practice
ATP's three linked, negatively charged phosphates repel each other, making the molecule inherently unstable and quick to release energy on demand.
Where people slip
Not every bond in ATP is high-energy — only the two linking its outer phosphate groups qualify.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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