How Do Human Cells Calculate and Utilize ATP?

  • Thread starter deenuh20
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In summary, the actual free energy of synthesizing ATP in a human hepatocyte is 47228 J/mol when concentrations are [ATP]=3.5 mM, [ADP]=1.50mM, and [Pi]=5.0mM. A 150 lb human adult requires approximately 40-50 kg of ATP per day due to the efficiency of metabolism being only 50%.
  • #1
deenuh20
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Biochemistry--Double check my answers please

Homework Statement



Part 1: 32 kJ/mol of free energy is needed to synthesize ATP from ADP and Pi when all reactants are at standard conditions (1M). In a human hepatocyte (liver cell), concentrations are far less. Calculate the actual free energy of the synthesis of ATP when concentrations are [ATP]=3.5 mM, [ADP]=1.50mM and [Pi]=5.0mM.

Part 2: A 150 lb human adult requires ~2000 kcal of caloric intake per day. Assuming that efficiency of metabolism is only 50%, calculate the mass of ATP used by a human adult in 24 hours. Use number obtained in #4 for your calculation. (Note: 1 calorie = 4.184 Joules)


Homework Equations



delta G= standard G + RT ln (products/reactants)


The Attempt at a Solution



For part 1, I did:

Delta G= 32,000 J/mol + (8.315 J/(mol*K))(298K) ln (ATP/(ADP*Pi))
Delta G= 32,000 J/mol + (2477.87 J/mol) ln (3.5x10^-3)/(1.5x10^-3 x 5x10^-3)
Delta G= 32,000 J/mol + (2477.87 J/mol) ln (466.667)
Delta G= 47228 J/mol

For part 2, I did:

[(0.5)*(2000 x 10^3 cal)*(4.184 J)*(503 g/mol ATP)] all divided by 47228 J and got 44561.5 g ATP


Thanks for your help!
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
This all looks fine. I want to point out that, yes, in fact your body does use on the order of 40-50 kg of ATP per day, due to the massive amount of recycling that goes on in your cells.
 

Related to How Do Human Cells Calculate and Utilize ATP?

1. What is biochemistry?

Biochemistry is the branch of science that studies the chemical processes and substances that occur in living organisms. It combines principles from both biology and chemistry to understand how biomolecules interact and function within a living system.

2. What are some examples of biomolecules?

Biomolecules are molecules that are essential for life and make up the structure and function of living organisms. Examples include carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

3. How does biochemistry contribute to the field of medicine?

Biochemistry provides a fundamental understanding of the chemical processes that occur in living organisms, which is crucial for understanding diseases and developing treatments. Biochemical research has led to the discovery of new drugs, diagnostic tests, and treatments for various diseases.

4. What techniques are used in biochemistry research?

Biochemistry research involves a variety of techniques, including protein purification, enzyme assays, chromatography, spectroscopy, and genetic engineering. These techniques allow scientists to study and manipulate biomolecules and understand their functions and interactions.

5. How does biochemistry relate to other scientific disciplines?

Biochemistry is a multidisciplinary field that overlaps with other scientific disciplines such as biology, chemistry, genetics, and medicine. It provides a bridge between these fields and helps to understand the molecular basis of life and its connections to other systems.

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