ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, is a molecule that stores and transfers energy inside of cells. ATP is broken down and through that process, energy is given to the cells. ATP is produced through cellular respiration. Cellular respiration requires Oxygen and glucose to start the cycle. Cellular respiration takes place in the mitochondria or “powerhouse” of the cells. They take in the Oxygen and glucose and turn it into Carbon dioxide, water, and ATP. The Carbon dioxide and the water are the byproducts of the reactions. In order for the body to be able to use ATP for energy, it must break the third phosphate bond through a process called hydrolysis. This bond on the molecule releases energy that can be charged up again after use.
Check out this animation featured in my episode to learn more!
