Metabolism: Cellular Energetics

How do living systems adhere to the constraints of the universe?

How can a living system maintain order in a universe of increasing entropy?

Theory - 2 Relevant Laws:

First Law – Matter and energy

Organisms are

Work:

Kinetic and Potential Energy:

Gibbs Free Energy: a measurement of

- At the cellular level

Exergonic Reactions

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Endergonic Reactions

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Biological systems use

Second Law – Any close system will

- Portions of the universe

- Energy

Life is Highly Ordered

- Organisms use the energy

Life Requires Energy Input

Open and Closed Systems

- Closed

Closed systems

They reach

- Open

Open systems will not reach

There is no inherent limit to the

Cellular Energy Theory

- The short

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- The bonds between

- Much more free energy

Much of the work done by cellular proteins

Metabolism – refers to the sum total of

- Energy from

- ATP

Reaction Coupling – refers to

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The Reaction Profile

- All reactions require an

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Catalysts

- Any substance that increases

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Make sure you can …

… explain how living systems adhere to the first and second laws of thermodynamics.… explain how living systems can increase in order even though the universe is moving towards a state of maximum entropy.… compare exergonic and endergonic reactions.… compare open and closed systems.… explain how ATP allows for cellular work.… explain the effect of a catalyst on a reaction profile.