What process releases energy from ATP?

The process that releases energy from ATP is hydrolysis. When ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is hydrolyzed, it breaks down into ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and an inorganic phosphate group. This reaction involves the addition of a water molecule, which helps to cleave one of the high-energy phosphate bonds in ATP. As a result, energy is released, which can then be used by various cellular processes that require energy, such as muscle contractions, active transport across membranes, and biosynthetic reactions.

By focusing on hydrolysis, the mechanism demonstrates how ATP serves as an energy currency within the cell. The inherent energy stored in the bonds of ATP is harnessed when this molecule is converted to ADP. This process is fundamental to energy metabolism and is a key aspect of cellular respiration, where energy from nutrients is ultimately transferred to ATP for use in cellular activities. Overall, understanding hydrolysis is crucial for grasping how cells manage and utilize energy effectively.