Why is energy released when ATP is hydrolyzed to ADP + Pi?
- A
The ribose ring opens, releasing potential energy
- B
The terminal phosphate covalent bond is unusually strong
- C
Adenine is reduced during hydrolysis
- Dcheck_circle
Repulsion between negatively charged phosphates is relieved and products are more stable than reactants
Explanation
The three negatively charged phosphates repel one another. Hydrolysis of the terminal phosphate releases energy because the products (ADP + Pi) are more stable than ATP.