ANSWERS 2025/2026
, What is the first law of thermodynamics? And how does it pertain to cells? -
ANSWEREnergy cannot be created or destroyed
Cells can't just create their own energy, they need a source.
What is the second law of thermodynamics? And how does this pertain to cells? -
ANSWEREnergy is transferred, and in every transfer some energy is lost.
Cells need a constant input of energy because they lose some as heat
What is an endergonic reaction? - ANSWERA reaction that requires energy input.
What is an exergonic reaction? - ANSWERa reaction that releases energy.
Describe the basic structure of ATP, where energy is stored, and how energy is
released. - ANSWER-Made up of a triphosphate group, 5-carbon sugar, and Adenine
-Energy is stored in the triphosphate group
-When energy is released, triphosphate group is released and ADP and phosphate
group is formed
What is the relationship of ATP and endergonic/exergonic reactions? - ANSWERThe
making of ATP is an endergonic reaction because it requires energy to build the
triphosphate molecule.
The making of ADP is exergonic because it releases energy, splitting the triphosphate
molecules.
What is an Oxidation reaction? What type of reaction is it? - ANSWER-Loss of electrons
-Exergonic Reaction
What is a Reduction reaction? What type of reaction is it? - ANSWER-Gaining of
electrons
-Endergonic Reaction
Describe the process of diffusion. - ANSWERDiffusion (passive transport) is the
spontaneous movement of materials from HIGH to LOW concentration down a
concentration gradient (form of energy) through a selectively permeable membrane (like
a bouncer).
What factors influence diffusion rates? - ANSWER-Temperature
-size of molecule
-time
-distance
-Solubility
-Surface Areaof membrane
-Solvent density