What compound can be made from glucose and serves as long-term energy storage? A. CO2 B. H2O C. ATP D. Mitochondria
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is C. ATP.
Explanation:
Glucose, a simple sugar, is the primary energy source for cells. Through cellular respiration, glucose is broken down into smaller molecules, and its energy is captured in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP serves as the cell’s primary energy currency, enabling various biological processes.
However, ATP itself is not suitable for long-term energy storage because it is unstable and depletes quickly when not used. Instead, the body stores excess glucose in other forms:
- Glycogen: In animals, glucose is polymerized into glycogen for medium-term energy storage, primarily in the liver and muscles. Glycogen can be rapidly converted back into glucose when energy is needed.
- Fats (Triglycerides): For long-term energy storage, excess glucose is converted into fats through lipogenesis. Fats are stored in adipose tissue and provide more than double the energy per gram compared to glucose.
The other options provided in the question are not correct for the following reasons:
- A. CO₂ (Carbon Dioxide): This is a byproduct of glucose metabolism, not an energy storage compound.
- B. H₂O (Water): Water is another byproduct of cellular respiration but plays no role in energy storage.
- D. Mitochondria: These are organelles responsible for energy production in cells, not a compound.
Although ATP itself isn’t used for long-term energy storage, it is the immediate and usable form of energy created from glucose. Long-term storage relies on glycogen and fat. Understanding how glucose is metabolized into ATP highlights its critical role in providing energy for cellular activities.